J.R. Smith is one of the most controversial players in pro basketball. The tattoos, the partying and the failed drug tests all make Smith an easy target for criticism. Although, he has many other redeeming qualities, the man possesses unlimited range on his jump shot, unparalleled athleticism, and a contagious personality. Having been selected 18th overall in the 2004 NBA Draft directly out of high school, Smith has acquired plenty of professional experience throughout his 13-year career. Now, at the age of 30, Smith has his sights set on only one thing and one thing only, an NBA championship.
With the NBA Finals rapidly approaching, my excitement is at an ALL-TIME HIGH, and approximately 94 percent of that excitement is directed towards Smith. Assuming the Warriors make it to the Finals, they will sadly have no chance at stopping Smith, and I've got a couple of reasons why:
1. The Stroke
Smith is a sharpshooter of the highest order. He is a lethal weapon and there is just no way around it. You can say what you want about his inconsistency, but that is irrelevant when you factor in his offensive prowess and, above all, his confidence.
To be successful in the NBA, you need to believe in your ability to put the ball in the basket, and that is exactly what J.R. does. He can hoist it up with the best of them, and he is able to do so due to his incredible upper and lower body strength. This is really where J.R. separates himself from the other marksmen.
J.R. has a remarkable knack for hitting tough shots, where he may spin off and fade away from a defender or contort his body to avoid an outstretched hand. He might take his defender off the dribble and show their ankles little to no remorse with creative crossover and behind-the-back dribbles, on his way to an inevitable swish. These shots are often categorized as ill advised, although it is hard to classify anything J.R. does as ill advised.
2. The Versatility
I know I already covered J.R.'s undeniable strength, but I forgot to mention his ability to frequently put an entire franchise on his back. When J.R. gets hot, the rest of the roster might as well just sit back, relax, and watch greatness. The NBA does not even allow him to play against the Atlanta Hawks anymore, due to the blatant disrespect he has shown them in recent seasons. Despite being arguably the third greatest shooter of all time, J.R. is capable of doing so much more on the hardwood. He happens to be a rare breed of athlete, possessing a vertical leap that elevates him into the rarified air of many other historic NBA athletes. This jumping ability allows J.R. to posterize defenders...
As well as move without the ball, either looking for his own shot or a cut to the basket.
Every aspect of his game has a certain flair to it. Whether it be high-volume three-point shooting, ankle-breaking crossovers, or unfathomable dunks, J.R. Smith excels at putting on a show for the fans.
I love you, J.R.! Keep up the good work! Ring season is upon us!
