Cleveland Cavaliers trade rumors: Cavs still in stalemate with Smith

Despite the pre-season in full swing, the Cleveland Cavaliers are still stuck in a contract battle with swingman J.R. Smith. 

Both sides seem to want Smith to play for the Cavaliers as the franchise has offered the player a new contract to stay in Ohio. The problem is that Smith wants a little more than what he is offered and this is where the problem starts.

There are a lot of questions regarding the matter, with inquiries as to the reason the two parties have not yet work out a deal.

According to cleveland.com, the Cavaliers offered Smith a new contract worth around $10 to 11 million. Unfortunately, Smith believes he is worth more than that, and the figure he should sign should be around $14 million.

As an unrestricted free agent, Smith can sign with other teams that give him the offer he wants. However, he wants to play with the Cavaliers and both teams are still hoping for an amicable decision soon.

Smith loves being with the team and is an integral part of the franchise. He is still seen hanging out with the players even if he is not officially a Cavalier.

Talking to ESPN, superstar LeBron James aired his side regarding the stalemate with the Cavaliers and Smith, stating that Smith did his part to help the Cavaliers win the championship. Still, replacements can always be found, if Smith decides to leave for good.

"We can't become full until he's here, but that doesn't deter anybody or any of the guys that's coming in to show up every day," James added.

It is clear that the team's best player is behind Smith, and if the Cavaliers are going to listen to anyone's comments, it would be LBJ's.

Still, there is no official answer as to what is happening with Smith's contract, and it remains to be seen how long until either Smith or the Cavs' management decides to cave in.