The Nuggets would like to have guard J.R. Smith back on the team next season, and it seems as though Smith would like to return to Denver as well, according to the Rocky Mountain News.

The three-point specialist will become a restricted free agent on July 1, when the NBA's negotiating period begins.

Smith has the option to forgo free agency this summer by accepting a $3.04 million qualifying offer for the 2008-09 season. Doing so would make him an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2009.

RealGM Note: Smith had a per 40 FIC of 13.4 and was ranked 162nd amongst all NBA players.  He 'deserved' to make just over $4 million, but his efficiency at the shooting guard position puts him in valuable territory.