J.R. Smith Considering China

Hmmmm maybe J.R. Smith wasn’t joking during the playoffs that he would probably end up elsewhere for the 2011-12 basketball season. I’m sure when he said that thou he didn’t think that elsewhere would be overseas but that may just take place. With the lockout dragging on and no end in sight Smith has begun talks with teams in China.

Guard J.R. Smith is seriously considering signing with a Chinese professional basketball team. Although he hasn’t signed a contract yet, Smith has been in touch with teams overseas, his agent Leon Rose​ confirmed today.

One of the Nuggets’ better reserves during the George Karl era, Smith is an unrestricted free agent, but is looking to get paid by playing in China during the NBA lockout. Yahoo Sports reported he’s mulling a $3-million deal to play the 2011-12 season with Shanxi. And if Smith plays in China, he wouldn’t be able to opt out of his contract and return to the states if the NBA lockout ends. Another Denver free agent, Wilson Chandler​, has already signed to play in China for the season. (Denver Post)

While Smith and head coach George Karl have been at odds this could be a huge blow to the Nuggets if Smith does sign a contract. Even while in Karl’s doghouse Smith still averaged 25 minutes a game and just over 12 points per. With Wilson Chandler unavailable if there is a 2011-12 season then you would have to assume he’d assume a greater role with the team.

If Smith were to sign in China then the Nuggets would have a huge void at the guard and forward positions. They’d be losing a lot of production and I’m not sure how they’ll be able to replace it.

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Tags: Denver Nuggets, JR Smith, NBA, Wilson Chandler