As the Hawks walked off the court following their Game 6 loss to the Pacers, they did so knowing Josh Smith might have just played his final game in an Atlanta uniform.
Josh Smith prepares for free agency following Hawks’ Game 6 loss
Smith, while talented, has continually drawn the ire of Hawks fans over the years for inconsistent play and poor shot selection.
It’s probably a welcomed change for a majority of Hawks fans.
Smith, while immensely talented, has been an enigma throughout his entire career. He’s capable of scoring the ball from just about any spot on the offensive end, although he’s made it a habit of settling for outside jumpers. This was the case in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, and it really hurt Atlanta’s chances of advancing as Smith continued to chuck up ill-fated shot attempts throughout most of the series.
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Smith scored just 14 points while going 5 of 16 from the field, including 0 for 3 from behind the arc. With the Hawks looking to make one final push in the closing seconds, Smith had his three-point attempt blocked, all but ending any chance Atlanta had at rallying.
As the summer months approach, Smith will hit the free agent market. He is believed to be seeking a max-dollar contract, although it’s unclear if some team will be willing to extend it to him.
It’s not a guarantee that the hometown Hawks won’t be the team to give J-Smoove that new deal, but most would agree a change of scenery would likely benefit both parties. Until then, Smith will begin preparations for free agency knowing he may be headed to a new city for next year and beyond.
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