JR Smith admits to being 'very depressed' while out of NBA
Speaking publicly for the first time since joining the Los Angeles Lakers, veteran guard JR Smith reflected on the toll that being away from basketball took on his mental health.
"I went through a very depressed state for a long time. And it lasted for a few months, where I just didn't - I'm a big video gamer, I didn't even play 2K anymore." Smith told reporters Monday, including ESPN's Dave McMenamin.
Smith last suited up in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His tenure came to an end in November 2018 after winning a championship two years prior.
"I was gone for a while, and for being somebody who has been around the league predominately for most of their adult life, when that's kind of taken away from you, it kind of gives you that culture shock and you obviously don't understand what you lost until it's gone," Smith added. "So, for me, more than anything, I just want to appreciate the moment for what it is, and whether it be next year or never again, I just want to enjoy every possible moment that I get."
Lakers head coach Frank Vogel believes Smith will fit in seamlessly coming off the bench.
"Watching him work out, hey, his nickname is 'Swish' for a reason, right?" Vogel said. "He's a shot-maker, a big-time shot-maker. Like I said, he looks like he's in terrific physical condition. And like I've said all along, I think he's really going to help us."
Smith has averaged 12.5 points while connecting on 37.3% of his 3-point attempts for his career.