Does JR Smith want to be a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers? As of today, it appears that he'd rather be playing ball elsewhere.
Just yesterday, ESPN's Brian Windhorst and Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the veteran shooting guard was pissed he'd been pulled from the starting lineup, and had considered taking time away from the team. Shortly thereafter, JR took to twitter in response to the report, tweeting, "False! They gave me the option an I chose to stay!"
However, it's now being reported that Smith wants out. According to Cavs reporter Chris Fedor, "JR Smith said he's hoping for a trade."
Smith did not play against the Hawks on Tuesday night, in which the Cavs recorded their first victory of the season. The 33-year old guard, who is guaranteed $18.59 million, has appeared in four games this season and his averaging just 2.5 points in 12 minutes of action per night.
Whatever happens between JR and his rumored desire to be traded, it's not the only dilemma facing the Cavs right now.
Kevin Love, who inked a four-year, $120 million contract this past summer, could miss more than a month with a foot injury. Larry Drew, who took over after head coach Ty Lue was fired, recently said he was told the Cavs might bring in a new head coach from the outside. As ESPN reports, it is unclear how long Drew would be willing to act as coach without a new agreement.
Cleveland, 1-6, will host the 6-1 Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.