The Los Angeles Lakers had thought about signing veteran wing J.R. Smith during the spring before the NBA season was suspended. Once the NBA title favorite knew it would be returning to the season in Orlando, that’s exactly what the team did.
Even if it is merely just a scrimmage ahead of the regular year resuming on July 30, we have to give Mr. Smith credit for balling out.
Late in Los Angeles’ exhibition game against the Dallas Mavericks at Walt Disney World Thursday evening, Smith decided to put on a show.
It started with an And-1 following a nifty drive through the lane.
Smith followed that up by nailing a three and dishing out a beautiful dime.
This is pretty impressive stuff given that the 34-year-old Smith has not suited up in an NBA game since Nov. 19 of 2018. Yes, that’s almost two full calendar years.
The Lakers hope to get production from Smith as well as fellow recent addition Dion Waiters once the regular season resumes. That would only make LeBron James and Co. tougher to beat.