As the NBA trade deadline approaches, Los Angeles Lakers are focused on adding depth to their team to fuel their playoff run. The team is, however, also looking into the free-agent market where they reportedly identified former Cleveland Cavaliers’ shooting guard J.R. Smith as someone who could be of help this season.
According to Brandon Robinson of Heavy.com, Lakers will host Smith at their facilities this week and organize a workout for the 34-year-old veteran.
Robinson reports that Smith didn’t receive any guarantees prior to the workout and that the organization will make the decision after they see him in action.
Smith’s last NBA appearance came with Cavs in November of 2018, when he allocated just five minutes of play against Detroit Pistons. Shortly after, Cleveland removed him from the team before waiving him last summer.
While J.R. Smith is regarded as a capable defender and above-average three-point shooter, his fit with the Lakers is questionable. The team’s primary focus has been adding a second playmaker and ball-handler, which isn’t exactly Smith’s strong side.
Smith, who won NBA Championship with the Cavs in 2016, has averaged 12.6 points and 3.2 rebounds throughout his career in NBA.
