NBA Rumors: Orlando Magic Possibly "A Leading Suitor" for J.R. Smith, According to Report

The Orlando Magic are one of several NBA teams that could sign free-agent shooting guard J.R. Smith in the coming days, reports Eric Pincus of HOOPSWORLD. Smith's Twitter profile lists Orlando among his potential landing spots, along with the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, and New York Knicks.

As Pincus notes, Orlando can offer Smith more money than any of the other teams on that list. If the Magic sign Smith, or any other free agent, they would need to waive a player to clear space for him on the roster. Pincus believes rookie center Daniel Orton, rookie guard DeAndre Liggins, or third-string point guard Ish Smith would be the most likely casualties.

J.R. Smith, a seven-year veteran, played in the Chinese Basketball Association during the NBA lockout and needs a letter of clearance from FIBA, international basketball's governing body, before he can sign with an NBA club. Pincus says FIBA should provide that letter in time for Smith to sign somewhere beginning February 16th.

Smith owns career averages of 12.5 points per game in 23.9 minutes, with 42.8 percent shooting from the field and 37.1 percent from beyond the arc. He made a name for himself as a bench sparkplug during his five seasons with the Denver Nuggets, with whom he averaged 13.7 points in 24.7 minutes.

Though talented, it's unclear where Smith would fit in Orlando's rotation. Between starter Jason Richardson, reserve J.J. Redick, and third-stringer Von Wafer, the Magic appear to be set at shooting guard.

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