For better or worse, J.R. Smith will go down in Cleveland Cavaliers history

“Swish” takes liftoff

Smith played in 77 games in the 2015-16 campaign, and scored 12.4 points, including 40.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc. That 40.0 percent clip Smith hit from beyond the arc was the best mark for him since the 2007-08 season.

That uncoachable, selfish teammate that Smith was made out to be was a thing of the past now that he was in Cleveland. Smith not only won the support and trust of his teammates, but he also endeared himself to the Cleveland faithful with his play on the court and his passion for the city off the court.

Smith was never shy about his love for the city, and would often be seen at other sporting events, supporting the city’s other teams.

But arguably the best moment J.R. had in a Cavaliers uniform was his performance in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals. Cleveland entered the second half down seven points, and Smith put up eight points in the third quarter to keep the Wine & Gold within striking distance.

With Kyrie Irving and LeBron garnering most of the attention from the Warriors’ defense, it was crucial that another player step up and score. Smith also provided a spark on the defensive end, proving to his critics that he is more than just an offensive-minded player.

https://twitter.com/CavsSportsTalk/status/1058030832739368960

What was incredible to see postgame was the emotion pour out of Smith while he was seated at the podium. His transgressions on the court and in his personal life are well-noted, and he tearfully thanked his family and his parents for sticking by him through all of his rough spots.

Seeing this side of Smith was incredible and opened up eyes to see the kind of person J.R. truly is. He got the label as a head case and a bad teammate from his time in New York, but when the stakes were at their highest, J.R. was a true teammate.

From that point on, there were up and down results, but we’ll always appreciate Swish.