Knicks Knew J.R. Smith Would Need Surgery Before Contract
By Mike Dyce
The New York Knicks re-signed the NBA’s reigning Sixth Man Of The Year, J.R. Smith this offseason to a 4 year $24.7 million deal. Shortly after, J.R. Smith had patellar tendon surgery and an arthroscopy for a tear in the lateral meniscus of his left knee. He is expected to be out 3-4 months as he recovers.
But the Knicks knew about the injury before resigning him. It is unlike the Dallas Mavericks situation with Devin Harris, in which the Mavs were set to sign Harris before a physical revealed a dislocated toe causing the Mavs to rescind their offer. The Mavs and Harris are still working towards a deal.
"A league source told ESPNNewYork.com that the Knicks were aware Smith likely would need surgery for his left knee, which started bothering him during the playoffs. At the time, he had fluid in his left knee, according to a source. Last week, he re-signed with the Knicks for four years, $24.7 million."
“Re-signing J.R. was one of our primary goals this offseason, and we are thrilled to have him back,” Knicks general manager Glen Grunwald said in a statement. “He made great strides this past season with his consistent play off the bench for us, and we look forward to his continued growth.”