Cleveland Cavaliers: Should the Cavs trade or keep JR Smith?

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BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 25: Kevin Love #0, JR Smith #5 and LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shake hands during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on October 25, 2017 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images) /

What’s Love got to do with this?

Probably nothing. The 29-year-old Kevin Love may also be another person to consider dumping off elsewhere, but the guy’s whole Cavaliers life has been trade rumors and nothing’s ever materialized.

What’s more, according to ESPN, Cleveland is looking to keep their all-star forward. While they may be trying to up his value with some good ol’ fashioned reverse psychology, let’s take the Cavs at their word for now.

Wasn’t Korver mentioned before?

Yes. This leaves Kyle Korver. Though 37-years-old, he remains competent at his job: being a lethal three-point shooter. He shot 43.6% from deep this past season. Everyone can agree his showing against the Warriors was less than lackluster, but the sharpshooter still has value.

At about $15 million over the next 2 years, he isn’t ridiculously expensive either.

He is the best player to pair with J.R. in a potential trade.

The Cavs pick next year is their best asset. This pick remains with Cleveland if they fall into the top 10 of next year’s draft. In keeping Love, the Cavs seemingly desire to remain somewhat competitive, perhaps pushing for a bottom tier playoff spot in the East. They could hedge these bets and use this pick to add value to a J.R. and Korver deal.