Rockets Have Expressed ‘Exploratory’ Interest In J.R. Smith

The Rockets have expressed “exploratory” interest in acquiring veteran shooting guard J.R. Smith, according to Marc Stein of the New York Times (Twitter link). We relayed last week that both the Rockets and Pelicans had expressed interest in Smith’s services.

Smith, 33, is currently away from the Cavaliers as they try to find a suitable trade partner. The Rockets are in the midst of a similar situation as Carmelo Anthony is currently on the roster but away from the team as both sides seek a resolution. We noted last month that Houston is seeking wing help.

The former NBA champion Smith has been vocal in his quest to be traded from Cleveland all season as he did not believe the team’s goal is to win games.

I don’t think the goal is to win. The goal isn’t to go out there and try to get as many wins as you can,” Smith said in November. “I think the goal is to develop and lose to get lottery picks. I think that was always the plan.”

With the departure of LeBron James this past summer, the Cavaliers seemed intent to compete for the postseason regardless. Cleveland even inked Kevin Love to a massive extension, but entering play on Monday, the Cavaliers sport a 6-20, tied for second-worst in the Eastern Conference.

While it’s clear the Cavaliers want to move on from Smith, his contract — which includes a $14.72 MM cap hit makes that proposition difficult. Also, in just 11 games this season, Smith posted career-lows with 6.7 PPG and .342 FG%. However, Smith does have considerable postseason experience and he would not be a long-term risk as he has just a $3.87MM guarantee on his $15.68MM salary for 2019/20.

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