Smith to Cavs; Gooden to Spurs

Despite a report in the New York Post today that indicated the Lakers were among the front-runners to sign forward Joe Smith, it appears he will sign with the Cavaliers. Meanwhile, forward Drew Gooden reportedly is leaning toward signing with the San Antonio Spurs. Smith was bought out of his contract by the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Sacramento Kings did the same favor for Gooden.

Both must clear waivers Wednesday before signing with new clubs.

The Lakers will stick with the status quo for the stretch run and the playoffs, preferring to wait for Andrew Bynum to return from a torn right knee ligament. Coach Phil Jackson said tonight that he spoke to GM Mitch Kupchak about signing a veteran, but they decided it was best to simply wait for Bynum rather than mess with the team’s chemistry.