Lakers also seeking Smith?: Former Denver G J.R. Smith cannot sign with an NBA team until mid-February, at the earliest, but that has not prevented clubs from showing interest in the 26-year-old. The latest team to add him to its wish list is the Lakers, according the Los Angeles Times. Smith is currently playing in China and cannot be released from his contract until his team's season is over, including the postseason. (Updated 02/03/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 2/12/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Smith has generated attention from several NBA teams, even before he is allowed to sign, so officials still see potential in him. The 6-foot-6 shooting guard has reportedly been tied to New York and Miami, among others, and could certainly help a contending team in the NBA playoffs. Smith battled inconsistency last season, but still managed 12.3 points per game with the Nuggets. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status. (Updated 02/03/2012).
09/21/2011 20:53 Martin agrees to deal in China, becomes third Nugget to bolt
Kenyon Martin becomes the third Denver Nuggets free agent to sign a contract to play in China this season. Martin's agent, Andy Miller, confirmed to the Associated Press on Wednesday that the 33-year-old forward has agreed to a deal with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers of the Chinese Basketball Association.
09/20/2011 12:53 Nuggets forward Gallinari rejoins Italian club
Denver Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari rejoined his former Italian team Olimpia Milano on Tuesday, agreeing to play until the NBA lockout ends.
Smith chose to sign a one-year deal to play in the Chinese Basketball Association during the lockout, meaning he will not be able to return to the NBA until next season. He improved defensively last season for the Nuggets, but that came with a step backwards in the offensive Fantasy categories. When the team traded Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to the Knicks for a bunch of contributors, Smith’s numbers actually improved, despite the notion he might see less playing time. He could land in a better spot to contribute in 2012, once his stint in China is over, but for now is not a player to be concerned about in Fantasy. (Updated 9/14/11)
