NBA Rumors: JR Smith Could Have Joined The Dubs Prior To Andre Iguodala Trade

JR Smith has yet to find a new home following an agreement with the Cleveland Cavaliers to push back the maturity date where the 33-year-old swingman would be guaranteed $15.68 million if not waived on the said date. Originally, this was set on June 30 but both agreed to move it to July 15. Unless something is announced, there is a chance that both sides may move the date once again, possibly on August 1.

The next 24 hours should be interesting for both sides. If waived before the set date, Smith would only be owed $4.37 million. Surprisingly, nothing has transpired and that no team has expressed interest in the veteran swingman. There are several teams who could use the 18th pick of the 2004 NBA Draft but so far, nothing has come to fruition. As mentioned in a previous post, some teams that could take him in include the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers or the Toronto Raptors.

One team that reportedly came close to a possible deal for Smith are the Golden State Warriors. Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com learned from sources that the Cavs offered the veteran swingman to the Warriors in a potential swap with Andre Iguodala. All this was before the Dubs traded the 35-year-old to the Memphis Grizzlies along with a protected first round pick for Julian Washburn. Golden State also received a traded player exception as part of the deal, NBA.com reported.

It seems that the potential deal failed to materialize because of Smith's partial guarantee worth. Sending Iguodala to the Grizzlies seemed more as a way for the Warriors to receive a trade exception since Memphis was under the salary cap. Taking in Smith would have become a problem for the Warriors in the offseason as they try to make small moves in filling their roster for next NBA season.

Once waived, it could be a different story. Obviously, it is the money tied up to Smith that may be keeping the Warriors away - same with other teams. While he has proven to be a deadly scorer and defender when he keeps his mind in the game, the longer he is kept out of action raises questions on whether he can still be an asset for any NBA ballclub. This week should prove to be interesting, especially for NBA vets like Smith who are trying to figure out their next stop.