Cleveland Cavaliers trade rumors: Smith and Cavs still without a decision on contract

J.R. Smith is surprisingly still without a team despite being an NBA champion. Last year, he helped the Cleveland Cavaliers erase a 3-1 series deficit against the Golden State Warriors to help the team win its first ever title in franchise history.

The celebrations, with or without a shirt, have been televised and everyone is happy for Smith. However, it is a big mystery as to why the Cavs and Smith have yet to come to a decision regarding a new deal.

There have been multiple speculations on the matter, with some articles claiming that Smith wants a longer deal that would give him security. This may hold true as Smith is no longer one of the younger players in the league. He is 31 years old at the moment.

He is still a very effective player, averaging a little over 13 points per game in his NBA career. There is no doubt that Smith deserves a place in the spotlight.

However, there are also other talks that are linking Smith to wanting a bigger deal given the fact that he was a very important piece in the team's road to become champions. The article stated that $15 million a year was the rumored price that Smith gave the Cavs.

Looking at his past contracts, the biggest year Smith had regarding payouts was in the 2014-15 season with the Cavs. He got $6.5 million.

But these are just that, rumors. And in an interview with Complex, Smith looked to be in shock as well because he has not come to a decision with the Cavaliers.

He said, "Well, obviously we're not where we want to be at from a personal standpoint. But it's more than just numbers. I don't want to feel like I'm taking advantage of the Cavs for everything they've done for me, and I don't want them to feel like I'm taking advantage of them. It's more of a mutual respect thing."

It remains to be seen how this will pan out but everyone will be happier if they see Smith in a Cavaliers uniform by the start of the new season.