Cavs salary snapshot: JR still at large

J.R. Smith remains an unrestricted free agent, though it appears in title only.

Smith expects to return to the NBA champion Cavaliers and the Cavs expect him back. All that's needed now is a piece of paper that states for how much and how long, and for both parties to sign it.

Believe it or not, training camp starts this month (Sept. 27). And the preseason tips off in less than four weeks.

Smith was the Cavs' starting shooting guard during their title run and is represented by Rich Paul and Klutch Sports, the same agency that represents You Know Who.

Not only is Paul the agent for LeBron James and Smith, but also starting center Tristan Thompson. That means three-fifths of the starting lineup is represented by Paul.

Last summer, Thompson was involved in lengthy contract talks that spilled into camp. Much like Smith, Thompson was free to sign with any team.

But much like Thompson, there's little belief Smith will go elsewhere.

Of course, there's been a lot less buzz surrounding Smith than there ever was with Thompson, simply because everyone assumes Smith isn't going anywhere.

He even attended the Indians game Friday -- more evidence that he holds Cleveland close to his basketball heart.

So Smith is unsigned and Mo Williams reportedly might retire. Where does that leave the Cavs' salary situation?

Well, Hoops Rumors took an in-depth look in a salary snapshot post that you can view here.

Along with taking a player-by-player glance at contracts, Hoops Rumors details how much cash the Cavs have shipped off (estimated at $200,000) and how much they've received (estimated at zero bucks and zero cents) in trades.

Smith's upcoming deal will change things, as might the situation with Williams, should he retire or be traded.

Until then, the Cavs will try to shore up their backup point guard spot and perhaps extend a few more invites to camp.

This is just how basketball is played in the offseason, and some people will tell you it's every bit as important as what takes place between the lines.

Cavs salary snapshot on Hoops Rumors