J.R. Smith Wins NBA Sixth Man Of The Year Award

J.R. Smith wins the NBA Sixth Man of the Year, according to the Associated Press.

The first man off the bench for the New York Knicks, Smith averaged 18.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.7 assist-per-game.

J.R. Smith wins Sixth Man of the Year award over Jamal Crawford who averaged over 16 points for the Los Angeles Clippers whom finished fourth in the Western Conference.

The Knicks finished second in the Eastern Conference and Smith has become a vital part in the team's success.

Smith signed with the Knicks midway through last season after playing overseas because of the lockout that shortened the last NBA season. When he was eligible to leave, he signed with New York.

Whenever Carmelo Anthony was out or not on the court during a game, Smith became the focal point of the Knicks' offense. He hit two buzzer-beaters that were victories for New York.

Currently, the Knicks are in their first-round matchup against the Boston Celtics.

Smith will be an unrestricted free-agent at the end of the season. The NBA's Sixth Man of the Year trophy could help him get more money during the offseason.

According to the AP, the Knicks will hold a press conference Monday at noon to officially make the announcement.