Lue: J.R. Smith will start Game 3

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue has put an end to the rumors suggesting he was looking switch up his starting lineup.

Despite recent reports that the Cavs were considering starting Iman Shumpert in place of J.R. Smith at shooting guard, Lue reaffirmed on Tuesday that Smith would remain in the starting lineup for Game 3 of the Finals.

Smith has struggled mightily in the series, shooting just 1-for-6 from the field and playing inconsistent defense. Shumpert hasn't fared much better on offense, but his defensive intensity, particularly against Warriors star Kevin Durant, has been one of the few bright spots in the Cavs' losses.

Shumpert could still end up seeing increased minutes on the wing in Game 3 if Smith gets off to another cold start, but having received intravenous fluids for painful cramps after Game 2, there's a chance he's playing at less than 100 percent.

Something has to give. Durant scored 71 points over Games 1 and 2, and is the runaway favorite to capture Finals MVP honors unless the Cavs can figure out a way to contain him.