After LeBron James departure, three weeks ago, J.R. Smith decided to finally say goodbye to the player with whom he won the 2016 NBA championship. With a farewell in three words, the veteran guard decided to publicly thank the King for four years as teammates, in which they reached the finals every time.
The 32-year-old player opted to be short and concise in his message of farewell to his former teammate, with an Instagram post. The picture shows Tristan Thompson and J.R. Smith helping LeBron James to get up during a game against Utah Jazz, with the caption “Thanks Bro @kingjames.” To which the four-time MVP commented “My G! #FamilyTies”.
Some people questioned why it took so long for J.R. to make a public statement about the most important move of this summer, and indeed the one with the most impact on the Cavs. However, is important to consider that this may have been a big shock for the Cleveland players — after all the best player of the league just left them. It was probably even worse for the former Knick after the small final-play incident in the first game of this season finals, when he dribbled away thinking they were up by one point — an incident which the Instagram users didn’t take too long to remind him in the post, blaming him for LeBron’s departure.
RELATED: WHAT LEBRON JAMES ON THE LAKERS MEANS FOR THE WESTERN CONFERENCE
Smith’s message might seem a little bit simplistic for some when you compare it with another farewell post of a LeBron’s former teammate. The Cavs guard Cedi Osman didn’t keep any words for himself when James’ exit became official. He highlighted how inspiring was to play along with the three-time NBA champion and how thankful he was to him in a 121-words message. Nevertheless, a simple “thanks” sometimes is the best way to show your gratitude.
The 2013 Sixth Man of the Year will need to find the way to lead a young squad this season that got used to playing next to a player that brings the best out of everyone in the court.
