Cleveland Cavaliers free agency, trade rumors 2016: Josh Smith to end team's search for a center?
Another "Smith" might be heading to "The Land" as veteran forward/center Josh Smith, who is a free agent, is recently being linked to the reigning National Basketball Association (NBA) champions, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
This off-season, the Cavaliers are believed to be searching for a center. They are also expected to answer the Golden State Warriors' signing of Kevin Durant.
Inking Smith could be hitting two birds with one stone for Cleveland. The 30-year-old can be the player at the no. 5 position the franchise is searching for. And if he could regain his old form as an explosive scorer, he is going to be the team's response to Golden State.
Smith will be a great addition for the Cavs if they push through with giving him a contract. He is a versatile player which means he can efficiently contribute on offense and defense. The former 17th overall pick (2004 draft) is also athletic and can be a key piece in their running game.
Unfortunately, the previous season was unkind to Smith as he struggled mightily, splitting time with the Los Angeles Clippers and Houston Rockets. In a total of 55 games (seven starts), he averaged career-lows six points, 3.5 rebounds, with 1.6 assists per outing.
But if Smith moves to Cleveland, he might have the chance to resurrect his career and again be a force to be reckoned with, just like during his days playing for the Atlanta Hawks and the Detroit Pistons.
As of the moment, signing Smith might be on the backburner for the Cavaliers because their main goal is to ink the "Smith" who helped them win a title last season - J.R. Smith. They reportedly made an offer to the guard but the latter is seeking for a better salary, although he has no plans of abandoning the organization he won a championship with.