J.R. Smith to the Hawks?
This is a case for J.R. Smith coming to the A. For starters, we would at least welcome him with open arms. The Hawks are one season removed from a 60-win season. With new, more athletic faces, they look to serve up a team worthy of competing with his highness, the King. The addition of J.R. Smith would improve the team with out a doubt. His ability to rebound, pass, and defend all improved last season, not to mention his outside spot-up shooting. If J.R. kept the right mindset, I believe this would be a good fit.
With the addition of Smith, Kyle Korver would come off the bench. After leg surgery and at age 35, Korver seems to be a step slow, especially on defense. His 3-point shooting took a dip below 40% last season. Signing J.R. Smith would make the perimeter defense better while still providing consistent outside shooting (Yes, J.R. provided consistent shooting from downtown in 2016 at 40%). However, J.R. Smith just about became a spot up shooter for the Cavs, allowing LeBron James and Kyrie Irving to handle the basketball and drive the lane. However, to create insane floor spacing, put Smith at the 2 and Korver at the 3 for time periods during the game.
Kyle Korver knocking down an outside shot.
Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
J.R. Smith shot the most 3-point attempts of his career while shooting them at a career high, 40%. By signing Smith, the Hawks still remain dominant defensively, while continuing to space the floor. Allowing Kyle Korver to come off the bench would create great depth for the Hawks moving forward. His legs would continue to stay fresh all season long and he would be a major scoring option for the second unit. It couldn't hurt to give Smith what he's asking for correct? I'm not saying this is going to happen, nor is there even a discussion for it. But open your mind NBA fans, clearly you can never add too much talent (GSW)...
