The reigning National Basketball Association (NBA) champions, the Cleveland Cavaliers, have a number of free agents they need to deal with, and one of them is J.R. Smith who is likely staying. 

Smith played well again in the 2015-16 season and was one of the key contributors, especially on offense, that helped the Cavs to its first ever title. 

In a report on Cleveland.com, it was mentioned that Smith is "expected to re-sign" this off-season. The 30-year-old veteran and LeBron James have the same agent in Rich Paul, who will spearhead the negotiations with the Cavs for their deals.

Cleveland's previous campaign was already the 12th season for Smith in the NBA. In 77 games (all starts), he averaged 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.1 steals per outing. He remained a factor in the Cavaliers' playoff campaign, recording 11.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest. 

Because of Smith's experience and performance in the past few years, there will be teams aiming to sign him this off-season aside from the Cavaliers. Bleacher Report opined that one of the squads that might make a run for the experienced guard is the Miami Heat.

The Heat lost franchise icon Dwyane Wade this free agency as he decided to join the Chicago Bulls. Smith could be one of their options to fill in Wade's spot at the shooting guard position. And according to Bleacher Report, trying to sign him would also "test the loyalty" he has for the Cavaliers. 

As of the moment, Smith may be on top of the Cavs' priority list this free agency. They would not let go of him that easy since he is an important piece to the championship puzzle which was successfully solved during the previous season. 

There is no deal in place for Smith now, but with things happening fast this off-season, expect one soon.