Posted Jul 10 2012 11:35AM
NEW YORK (AP) The New York Knicks are keeping another key member of their rotation with J.R. Smith deciding to re-sign.
Smith's agent confirms the deal that was agreed to early Tuesday. Smith had declined a $2.5 million option for next season, because doing so meant he could earn slightly more. But the New Jersey native had hoped to return to the Knicks.
Smith joined the team in February after playing in China during the lockout and averaged 12.5 points, right at his career average. The 6-foot-6 guard joins Steve Novak, who agreed to terms Monday, in returning to the Knicks. Both were reserves last season, but Smith could become a starter if the Knicks don't match an offer sheet Landry Fields plans to sign with Toronto.
Deals can become official on Wednesday.
 | Gasol Slams Marc Gasol gets inside and throws down a big right-handed flush. |
 | Conley's Big Three Mike Conley gets Tony Parker in the air with a shot-fake and beats the shot clock with a big three-pointer. |
 | Conley's And-one Mike Conley draws the foul on Tony Parker with the shot-fake and sinks the tough jumper. |
 | Randolph's Putback Zach Randolph gathers the rebound off the Tayshaun Prince miss and puts it back. |
 | Pondexter's Bucket and Foul Quincy Pondexter gets inside for the tough reverse layup and the foul. |
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