Honestly I like the starting lineup with JR in it. I'm always a big fan of playing your best 5 players out of the gate and I honestly think that JR is the 4th best player on the team and should be in the starting line up. This is especially true with the injuries to shump and brewer right now.
Also JR is a great athlete and baller but has never fully attained his potential. This could be the type of thing that could motivate Swish to step up his game. If Woody gives him some shots at the staring lineup early on and he plays well and the team wins then I think he's earned it. He has certainly earned the chance to prove himself.
I think Manu and Harden are different types of players. They are better suited to that 6th man, lead the rally troops kind of players. JR Smith coming off the bench simply looks to "get his" where as JR smith the starter looks to defend, pass, make plays and score efficiently.
I know that the bench looks light on scoring with him in the starting lineup. But if we are asking Shump to increase his offensive output, why not put him in unit 2 and allow him to get more touches and looks? Certainly Kidd and Camby can still score effectively. Shump should be able to create a look, and essentially we shouldn't be doing entire Line changes like it's hockey, just subbing in for assignments on D and situational plays, and to give starters rest.
JR Smith in the starting lineup gives us one of the most dangeour offensive starting lineups in the league. JR has Joe Johnson potential. Hell I'd say his ceiling is higher even as he's more athletic and can be a better defender. Just need to motivate him the right way.