"JR is not going anywhere," Woodson replied.
He then repeated it, looking right into the camera, as if speaking directly to Smith.
But there is somewhat of a Catch-22 here for Woodson and the Knicks. While the effort and faith Woodson has showed in Smith has resulted in the player's exponential growth and also team success, his market value also goes up.
Smith is almost certain to not pick up the second year, $2.9 million option on his contract for next season. That would send him into unrestricted free agency and the Knicks would only have Early Bird Rights (maximum league average) to re-sign him.
Smith could get a better offer elsewhere that the capped-out Knicks could not afford.
But Smith does have to consider several factors that involve leaving the Knicks for a big payday:
1. If he stays for a short-term deal, the Knicks would then have his full Birds next summer.
2. He would no longer have Woodson as his coach. Can he trust any other coach the way he trusts Woodson?
3. He would leave New York, a place he has grown to love (and close proximity to his family, especially his daughter, which he also enjoys).
4. Most teams with cap space aren't playing for a championship.
5. He and Carmelo Anthony have developed a strong bond as teammates and friends.
Smith has made $28 million so far in his NBA career. He will be 28 in September. This is the prime of his career, which means this is likely going to be the chance for him to get the biggest deal of his career.
What remains to be seen if there is a team out there that will give him enough reason to leave.
@ only being able to pay him up to $5 million.
