NBA -- J.R. Smith contract talks continue to stall

LAS VEGAS -- With the 2016-17 NBA regular season just around the corner, the Cleveland Cavaliers will soon begin defense of their title minus one important piece -- shooting guard J.R. Smith.

As of this writing, J.R. Smith, who pocketed $5 million last season, still doesn't have a new contract and according to multiple reports, the stalemate could last longer.

Per a report by Slam online, Smith is reportedly asking for a $15 million a year salary while the Cleveland Cavaliers are offering within the "$10 to $11 million range.

After all the contracts that have been dole out this past summer, Smith is also looking out for his and his family's financial security. He told USA Today "Before, I could just sit there and be like 'I don't care where I go'. But now I have kids, and its like, OK now what's the best fit?"

LeBron James is openly campaigning for the Cavs to open their wallet and pay Smith. That may or may not factor in the team's decision to keep or not to keep Smith.

Smith appeared in 77 games for Cleveland last season, averaging 12.4 points per game while shooting 40 percent from 3-point range.