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Following a controversial career filled with highs and lows, J.R. Smith was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers back at the start of 2015. The shooting guard was closing in on his 30th birthday, although Smith quickly rebuilt his career as a starter, and played a vital role in the Cavs' title-winning season in 2016.
However, following four successful seasons, Smith fell out with Cleveland after publicly criticizing the direction of the franchise. The outburst caused the Cavs to sit the 33-year-old for much of last season, and Smith was finally waived last month.
Nevertheless, as one of the best backup guards in the league, Smith should have no problem finding a team for the forthcoming season, and here are three of his most likely destinations.
#3 Los Angeles Clippers
Following an impressive spell in China, Smith eyed his return to the NBA in early 2012. The then 26-year-old guard had attracted interest from the New York Knicks, L.A. Clippers, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic, and Los Angeles Lakers - but eventually narrowed his options down to the Clippers and Knicks.
On this occasion, Smith was swayed by the opportunity to play in New York, although now could be the time for the Clippers to revisit a deal. Following the summer additions of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, L.A. enters the 19-20 as the favorites, although the team could still use an additional body in the backcourt.
Patrick Beverley and Landry Shamet are likely to start, although aside from the incredible Lou Williams, the Clippers lack further role players. Available on a minimum deal, Smith could be the final piece of the puzzle as the Clippers attempt to win a first championship.
#2 Los Angeles Lakers
After being released by the Cleveland Cavaliers last month Smith was immediately linked with a reunion with LeBron James. The Lakers quickly denied the reports, although things change quickly in the NBA, and Smith could still find a way to Los Angeles.
With the Lakers' current roster maxed out, Smith won't be heading to Los Angeles for the start of the 19-20 season, although if the veteran is willing to hold off signing for a new team, he could be handed an opportunity down the line.
Troy Daniels and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could be traded ahead of the trade deadline, and Smith would be an adequate replacement for either shooting guard. With Carmelo Anthony also being linked with a move to L.A., this could turn out to be one of the most drama-filled rosters in recent history.
#1 Miami Heat
After pulling off an unlikely sign-and-trade for Jimmy Butler, the Miami Heat have embarked on a search for a second-star. Pat Riley and the Heat explored a move for Russell Westbrook, although the 2017 MVP completed a quickfire move to the Houston Rockets.
Since missing out on Westbrook, the Heat have explored signing the likes of Bradley Beal and Chris Paul, although both deals look unlikely at this point. But, with Butler expecting more talent around him, Miami may have to look at lesser names - such as Smith.
While Smith has clashed with former teammates, the veteran shares Butler's fierce desire to prove his critics wrong, and the veteran would play a prominent role in the Heat's backcourt. Ultimately, Smith is not the superstar that the Heat want, although he could prove to be an adequate short term fix.
