NBA: Lakers, JR Smith finalizing deal

The Los Angeles Lakers and free agent J.R. Smith are finalizing a deal which shall bring the shooting guard to the squad for the rest of the season.

It has been reported earlier that the Lakers are considering Smith to replace Avery Bradley, who opted out of the NBA’s return in Orlando next month.

Now, Smith is just formalities away from becoming a member of the purple and gold and reuniting with his superstar teammate LeBron James.

Lakers and Smith have been in talks since Avery Bradley opted-out of the restart, and those will culminate with a deal that will include him on the roster Lakers will submit to NBA on Wednesday, per sources. https://t.co/vtiqcfBvCm

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2020

James and Smith won a championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, with the latter being a reliable starter.

The 6-5 guard tried out for the Lakers before the season suspension, but the team ultimately selected Dion Waiters in the process.

Now, Smith will have a chance to prove his worth in L.A.

The 15-year veteran has not seen action since November 2018.

The former 6th Man of the Year has career averages of 12.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, and 2.1 APG. He is also a career 37.3% shooter from 3-point area.