Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 Predictions for the 2018-19 NBA season

5. J.R. Smith will be traded

Through his time in Cleveland, J.R. Smith has been both loved and hated. He has been a roller coaster of emotions ever since he joined the team. One second he is making big-time plays and in the next, he is forgetting the score to an NBA Finals game.

Despite his highs and lows, Smith has undoubtedly become a fan favorite. He isn’t perfect but he found a way into every Cleveland fan’s heart. That’s why seeing him be traded would hurt many people, but it would be for the best.

The Cavaliers realistically have no spot for Smith now. He is a great side member to a championship contending team. He can knock down shots and heat up at a moments notice. This is very valuable to elite teams.

In contrast, Smith has a history of being a troublemaker on bad teams. When playing for sub-par teams, he is notorious for causing problems. His attitude often reflects the record of the team he is playing for. If the Cavaliers play bad, it’s likely Smith will cause more trouble.

Furthermore, there is no point in having a player of Smith’s age on the team. At 33 years of age, he serves no use to a team that is attempting to rebuild. The Cavaliers need young prospects, not aging veterans.

So, it would only make sense for the front office to ship Smith elsewhere. The return for a player of his caliber might not be great, but a few draft picks or prospects could suffice.