J.R. Smith is trying a new approach this season. He’s giving NBA officials the silent treatment.
The Cavaliers guard has only been whistled for one technical this season (he had a second rescinded). When asked about it, Smith has a simple explanation: He purses his lips and twists an imaginary key.
“I’m trying to leave the refs alone,” Smith told the Beacon Journal. “I’m used to at least being able to talk to them, but the last couple years they don’t want to hear nothing from me.”
Smith has stopped talking to referees almost entirely. He doesn’t argue, nor does he plead his case on foul calls anymore.