Fresh off his Sixth Man Award, J.R. Smith is almost certain to opt out of his contract and become a free agent July 1. The Knicks are praying they are not outbid.
At Monday’s press conference, Smith evaded a question on his contractual future, saying he will “worry’’ about it when the time comes. However, in a TV appearance later, Smith said he hopes it works out here.
“Without a doubt. I’m born in New Jersey, born and raised,” Smith said. “I would love to retire a Knick.”
Smith made $2.8M this season. With his Early-Bird rights, the Knicks are permitted to raise a new contract to $5.2M for a maximum four years. However, teams under the cap in search of a prime-time scorer can blow the Knicks out of the water.