NBA: Bradley to skip season return in Orlando; Lakers to sign JR Smith?

Los Angeles Lakers guard Avery Bradley has decided to opt out of the NBA’s upcoming season return in Orlando this July.

The defensive stalwart mentioned per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that he will be prioritizing being with his family amidst the on-going coronavirus pandemic.

At forefront of Bradley’s decision to remain w/ his family is the well-being of the oldest of his 3 children. His 6-year old son has a history of struggling to recover from respiratory illnesses and would’ve been unlikely to be medically cleared to enter bubble with his family. https://t.co/yputDg2VJp

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 24, 2020

Bradley’s absence will be a big hole to fill for the Lakers, as he is a 2-way threat who can hit from the outside while also being a hard-nosed defender.

With his absence and the Lakers still having a roster spot for the playoffs, it seems Los Angeles will sign free agent J.R. Smith, a former teammate of LeBron James.

Free agent guard JR Smith has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Avery Bradley on the Lakers roster, sources tell ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 24, 2020

Smith last played for the Cleveland Cavaliers but had been sitting out games due to a sour relationship with the team’s front office.

The Lakers signed Dion Waiters and Markieff Morris prior to the NBA season suspension.