NBA: Cavs’ Smith doesn’t mind coming off the bench after Wade’s arrival
Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith (5) AP FILE PHOTO
The entire city of Cleveland remains ecstatic after three-time NBA Champion Dwyane Wade officially cleared his waivers and signed with the Cavaliers on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila).
READ: It’s done: Wade makes it official, signs with Cleveland
The 12-time All-Star is expected to assume the shooting guard position and make a big impact right away for the defending Eastern Conference Champions.
His arrival also perhaps signals a diminished role for the team’s eccentric, sweet-stroking shooting guard J.R. Smith.
Surprisingly, the 32-year-old former NBA Sixth Man of the Year seems to take it in stride and expressed his willingness to give his spot to Wade.
“I’m not going to get into a blank measuring contest with Dwyane Wade,” he told Ben Axelrod of WKYC. “I’m not gonna win that.”
Smith also made it clear that he simply wants what’s best for the team, and will do whatever it takes to help bring another title to “The Land.”
“That’s a coaching decision, however it works out. If anything, it makes us stronger. Whether I come off the bench or he comes off the bench, however it works,” he explained. “I don’t really focus on it, honestly. This is my 14th year coming up, and I’ve had a lot of BS in my past but I don’t plan on bringing that to the Cavs.”
Smith, of course, is no stranger to coming off the bench, having been named the league’s best substitute in 2013 with the New York Knicks.
Wade, on the other hand, has been a consummate starter for much of his illustrious career.
“I love it,” Smith described Wade’s signing. “It gives us more depth, especially at the wing positions. Obviously he brings a championship pedigree. He’s a multiple All-Star, soon to be Hall of Famer, so I love it.” Khristian Ibarrola /ra
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