LAS VEGAS — J.R. Smith said he doesn’t care if he starts for the Knicks or comes off the bench as long as he is paired with Jason Kidd.
“Wherever J-Kidd is, that’s where I want to be,” said Smith, who re-signed this week. “Wherever J-Kidd is, that’s where I’m at. That’s where I want to be. I love his game. I don’t know him personally. I love his demeanor toward the game, how serious he takes the game. I heard he’s one of the best teammates. He’s a class act from what I understand.’’
Smith sees Kidd, the veteran point guard who signed a three-year free-agent deal, having a big effect on the Knicks offense.
“It’s open shots all day,” Smith said. “Our job is to make them. With J-Kidd, he’s finding everybody. Not only is he going to help myself and [Steve] Novak, he’s going to help our bigs.”
Smith popped into the Knicks’ summer-league practice to watch his brother, Chris, who was undrafted out of Louisville and is vying for an invite to training camp.
Smith signed a $2.8 million contract with a player option for the season. The Knicks were unable to offer him more than a 20 percent raise. J.R. said he got a bigger offer, but wanted to be on a winner.
“There were options for more money,’’ Smith said. “I’ve got money. I’ve been playing this game since I was 18. Money’s not the option. You can’t be on winning teams forever. I’ve been on losing teams. It’s not a great feeling.’’
Smith said he needs to be better after losing his shot in the playoffs, shooting 31 percent in the first-round exit against the Heat.
“I really didn’t want to go anywhere else,’’ he said. “I was comfortable with my situation. I got a great opportunity from the team to come in and help. I really think I didn’t do that last year. I think I got a lot to prove.”