The New York Knicks are reportedly exploring which teams, if any, would be interested in trading for Knicks guard J.R. Smith. One possible destination could be the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are still looking for a sixth man after the departure of James Harden two years ago.
Smith's lack of production and mercurial behavior has made him expendable. Although Smith may be a tough sell, ESPN reported on Wednesday that the Knicks are searching for potential trade partners in a deal involving Smith.
"Sources close to the situation said Wednesday that the organization has become increasingly frustrated with Smith's on- and off-the-court transgressions and may feel that a fresh start would be best for all parties," Ian Begley and Marc Stein of ESPN wrote.
Oklahoma City could be a suitor for Smith, according to Bleacher Report, because of the Thunder's need for a scorer off the bench. The article, published in September, suggests Thabo Sefolosha, Nick Collison and a draft pick in exchange for Smith.
The asking price for Smith, however, has devalued through the season. Still, the Knicks could have the opportunity to grab a draft pick while Smith would have the opportunity for a new start.
Smith, who won the 2012-13 Sixth Man of the Year award, hasn't been a reliable scorer this season. His 18.1 points per game last season dropped to 11.3 this season, and his behavior has become a headache. Smith reportedly butted heads with coach Mike Woodson early in the season, and Smith's latest stunt - untying an opponent's shoelaces during a game - has created even more friction between coach and player.
"I'm not happy about this, because he was warned, he comes back and he makes the same mistake, and it's not right," Woodson told ESPN radio on Wednesday. "It's just got to stop. I keep saying this every time something pops up, but it's got to stop."
Woodson called Smith "unprofessional" and said he'd address it with the 28-year-old on Thursday. The NBA fined Smith $50,000 for "recurring instances of unsportsmanlike conduct."
Smith isn't eligible to be traded until Jan. 15.
