David Blatt Calls J.R. Smith A “Dream” For The Cavaliers
J.R. Smith is having a major impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers and his new head coach, David Blatt.
Since Smith was traded to the Cavaliers with Iman Shumpert from the New York Knicks, officially relieving Cleveland of Dion Waiters via OKC, the Cavs have been rolling. They’ve won 15 of their last 17 games and look visibly improved with their latest roster changes.
But Cavaliers head coach David Blatt is extremely high on his new shooting guard, and has high praise for the J.R. Smith he’s coaching right now.
Via Steve Popper of NorthJersey.com:
“I really can’t comment on anything in the past, but I can tell you one thing: J.R. Smith has been a dream for us, as a team and for me personally,” said Cavaliers rookie coach David Blatt. “I love the guy. I love coaching him. He comes to work every single day. He’s a great teammate. He’s playing both ends of the court for us consistently.
“He’s one of the main reasons for our turnaround, together with Iman, who simply started later because of the injury. Those guys, honestly, they’ve been a godsend. They really have. They turned the team around.”
The “past” Blatt chose not to address is Smith’s popular criticism of being too much of a party hound. Being sent to a team like the Cavaliers, which features the best player in the league today and a viable chance at competing for a championship, can inspire new motivations. J.R. Smith seemed to understand and embrace his opportunity right away.
What Smith has brought to this team in terms of a confident and streaky outside shooter is invaluable, and I’m sure David Blatt is loving how Smith’s shooting ability has given his team’s offense new life. But also credit Smith for his apparent work ethic noted by Blatt. Smith is also playing with high effort on and consistently on the defensive end. Blatt loves coaching him. Maybe that surprises some people, but when you consider the situation, J.R. Smith is simply making the most of his surroundings and his opportunity.
