Los Angeles Lakers: 3 reasons to sign J. R. Smith

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 27: JR Smith #5 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on against the Indiana Pacers on October 27, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 27: JR Smith #5 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on against the Indiana Pacers on October 27, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

1. Cost-efficient scoring

There aren’t many players on the market right now that will provide the value for the buck that Smith could. Getting a scorer at a veteran’s minimum rate is an absolute steal. If it doesn’t work out, you can cut him and not do much to your cap.

Smith will score, there is no doubt about that. If you get anything resembling 2016, the Lakers will be getting a gift. Even with a down season last year, Smith still has some basketball left in him.

The Lakers will be looking to make small trades and then hit the wire for free agents and buyout options. If they want Smith, they can get him. I believe they should take the opportunity to bring him in and see what he can provide down the stretch.

For a Lakers team that is ready to win a championship this year. Having Smith with his shooting and familiarity with LeBron goes a long way. Bron knows with Smith can provide and where he thrives.

That could be the winning recipe over guys like Crawford and Young.