Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsTuesday, August 4, 2026

Knicks vs. Pacers: J.R. Smith questionable due to illness for Game 3 vs. Pacers

Knicks guard J.R. Smith has a fever of 102 degrees and may not play in Game 3 against the Pacers on Saturday night.

New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith did not participate in shootaround on Saturday morning and is questionable for Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers due to an illness.

It's unclear just what type of illness Smith has, but Knicks head coach Mike Woodson said that the Sixth Man of the Year has a fever of 102 degrees. Smith has been really struggling in these playoffs, shooting just 38.4 percent overall and 26.3 percent over the last four games. The shooting woes have forced Woodson to consider less playing time for Smith, even if he does suit up.

In addition to his shooting troubles, Smith has been making some headlines off the court. After going 3-of-15 in the Game 2 victory on Tuesday, Smith was seen partying with Rihanna late into the night. Smith avoided questions about the situation on Friday by walking out on the assembled media.

As poor as Smith has been playing, the Knicks would miss his presence in the lineup if he sits. Smith's ability to create shots for himself takes pressure off Carmelo Anthony, who would be forced to take on even more of the offensive load.

More from SB Nation:

Kevin Durant vs. the world

Damian Lillard was more than ready for NBA

Why Len is a better prospect than Noel

Joakim Noah: Flicked off, flirting with death

Rose might be scared, and that’s OK

Living and working with anxiety disorder

See More:

More in NBA

NBA
7 NBA teams who will be way better than last year7 NBA teams who will be way better than last year
NBA

These NBA teams are going to be a lot better in the upcoming season than they were last year.

By Ricky O'Donnell
NBA
Why LeBron James chose the 76ers in NBA free agency, and his big bet on Jaylen BrownWhy LeBron James chose the 76ers in NBA free agency, and his big bet on Jaylen Brown
NBA

LeBron James *really* wanted to play with Jaylen Brown

By Ricky O'Donnell
NBA
NBA Reacts: Are the LeBron Sixers the best team in the East?NBA Reacts: Are the LeBron Sixers the best team in the East?
NBA

The 76ers have more talent than anyone in the Eastern Conference, but will it turn into enough wins to win the East?

By Kyle Thele
NBA
Steph Curry to the Hornets is the wild NBA rumor that might have legsSteph Curry to the Hornets is the wild NBA rumor that might have legs
NBA

This makes so much sense, and it’s so irresponsible.

By James Dator
NBA
7 NBA stars who could be traded next7 NBA stars who could be traded next
NBA

These are the next big names on the NBA trade block.

By Ricky O'Donnell