Report: Cavs consider starting Iman Shumpert over J.R. Smith in Game 3

Smith has been struggling against the Warriors over the first two games

One of the biggest subplots through the first two games of the NBA Finals has been the lack of production from Cleveland's role players. J.R. Smith, Tristan Thompson and Deron Williams are a combined 5-for-25 from the field for just 11 points in the first two games. 

That lack of production is not the only reason the Cavs are heading back to Cleveland down 2-0, but it's certainly a factor. So much so, that coach Tyronn Lue reportedly is considering a lineup change for Game 3. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, the Cavs are thinking about moving Iman Shumpert into the starting lineup for J.R. Smith. 

This, even despite the fact that Shumpert reportedly needed an IV treatment after the game on Sunday night. Via ESPN:

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Iman Shumpert experienced cramping in the second half of the Cavs' 132-113 Game 2 loss to the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals on Sunday and required intravenous fluids after the game, a team source told ESPN.

Shumpert had six points, four rebounds and three steals in 22 minutes off the bench, and despite shooting only 1-for-6 from the field, he was considered a bright spot in the loss because of his attack mentality and on-ball defense against Kevin Durant.

Even with the cramping, Shumpert's play, coupled with JR Smith's disappearing act in the series thus far, has the Cavs considering a lineup change at shooting guard for Game 3, the source said.

Smith went scoreless in just 14 minutes in Game 2, and for the series has three points on 1-for-6 shooting, two rebounds, three turnovers and five fouls. 

Shumpert, meanwhile, has also struggled from the floor, going just 3-for-12 in the first two games, but he has rebounded well, averaging 4.5 boards, He also had four steals in Game 2. Plus, he has provided far more energy than the lackadaisical Smith. 

With the utter lack of offense Smith has provided through the first two games, the swap may not be a bad idea. Even if the two end up playing about their usual minutes, it may help to have Shumpert's energy and defense right from the tip, especially being back at home.