Lil Red Machine

What a life.

One day, you are playing for one of the worst teams in the NBA in the Oklahoma City Thunder.  Perhaps thinking about golf tee times and vacation plans for the upcoming offseason, all while hopping from city to city with a hapless unit.  Next thing you know, you are dealt to a team that is 47-12.  If that doesn’t create a spring in your step, nothing else really will.

The Cavaliers agreed to a contract with Joe Smith Tuesday.  He will be making his second tour of duty with Cleveland, after coming over in the trade last season that landed them Ben Wallace, Wally Szczerbiak, and Delonte West.  The former number 1 pick from the 1995 draft never lived up to that billing, but has had a long career, filling various roles for the teams he has played for.  With Ben Wallace out, the Cavs needed another veteran big man.  He gives them someone who can consistently hit the 10-15 foot jumpshot for the screen and roll plays they like to run.

There was talk about them signing Drew Gooden over Smith, but the Cavs went with the more consistent performer.  With Drew, you never know what you are going to get.  He is capable of some big games, but also can make really terrible mistakes.  With Joe, you get the same guy on a nightly basis.  You never have to question his professionalism.

Good move, one that may have a huge payoff in the end.  The Cavs have been hurting for another big man outside of Zydrunas Ilgauskas who can score.  That void has now been filled.