J.R. Smith was a recent guest on JJ Redick's podcast The Old Man And The Three. During his guest spot, Smith discussed many aspects of his career. However, one story is now going viral. Smith addressed a moment during the 2015 NBA Finals regarding his former teammate Matthew Dellavedova. In the story, Smith describes the great lengths Dellavedove went to attempting to have his body ready for a matchup with Steph Curry in the Finals. A matchup that would almost bring Delly death, according to Smith.
"Delly almost died guarding Steph Curry. We have footage of this man in the ice tub like literally to his neck… He could barely talk after, that's how hard he was trying." Smith was referring to Dellavedova being thrust into the starting point guard role during the Cavaliers 2015 Finals run. Starting point guard, Kyrie Irving was injured, causing him to miss the biggest series of the year. The 2015 Finals would be the first time Curry and the Golden State Warriors brought home the NBA Championship.
J.R. Smith Has All The Respect For Dellavedova
The Cavaliers were outmanned with the absence of Irving. However, a more significant part of this story may be the continued growth of the legend of Curry. Curry has been an unstoppable force with the Warriors. After the team nailed draft picks with Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, the team has become a dynasty. It has taken injuries or a complete performance by LeBron James to stop the Warriors when they make the Finals. However, Smith isn't going to let anyone forget the 2016 Finals.
J.R. Smith got to be a part of the biggest moment in Cleveland Cavaliers franchise history. The 2016 championship was the first title for the franchise and a promise kept by the son of Cleveland, LeBron. However, the 2015 Finals gave Dellavodova a chance to cash in on a great contract offer from the Milwaukee Bucks following the 2016 season. 2015 will always be remembered as the year the Warriors dynasty began. However, many won't forget the absolute heart and soul that Delly poured into that series. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here with HNHH.