J.R. Smith didn't have to become a free agent this summer, but the Cleveland Cavaliers put him in a position to make money.
Smith had a player option on the docket for 2015-16—one that seemed like a no-brainer to pick up when he was clanking like a construction worker for the New York Knicks during the first half of the season. But after just a fraction of a season's worth of games in Cleveland, and more importantly, after helping a lacerated Cavs team to the Finals, he's regained the value that once helped him sign a three-year, $18 million contract with the Knicks.