NBA media days and training camps just started around the league. There’s still plenty of time for teams to make moves bolstering their roster before the season. Jae Crowder’s name has been the center of many talks for NBA teams and fans recently. Crowder requested to skip training camp as the Phoenix Suns search for a trade candidate. Crowder himself took to Twitter to let his feelings be known.
ONE MUST SEEK WORK WHERE HE IS WANTED.. WHERE HE IS NEEDED.! I AM THANKFUL FOR WHAT THESE PAST 2 YRS HAVE TAUGHT ME.! NOW I MUST TAKE ON ANOTHER CHALLENGE WITH CONTINUED HARDWORK & DEDICATION.! FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CLOSED THE DOOR ON ME…. THANK YOU! 99 BACK SOON.! 🥷🏾🤫🤐
— JAE CROWDER (@CJC9BOSS) September 25, 2022
Additionally, Crowder clapped back at StatMuse that involved some statistics of current Bucks star guard, Jrue Holiday.
ID MUCH RATHER HAVE THE RINGS JRUE & AD TOOK FROM ME.! 🤦🏾♂️😡 https://t.co/3torEL04Cz
— JAE CROWDER (@CJC9BOSS) September 19, 2022
During the course of the 2021-22 season, Crowder saw his role diminish in favor of younger talent, Cam Johnson. His shooting numbers also dipped a bit from the Suns’ title run against the Bucks’ during the 2020-21 season.
Crowder by the Numbers
Jae Crowder is currently in the final year of a 3-year deal with the Suns. He is expected to make roughly $10.1 million this upcoming season. The 32 year old has been in the league since 2012 when the Cleveland Cavilers drafted him in the second round, 34th overall, out of Marquette.
During Crowder’s career, he’s played for seven different NBA franchises. In 735 career games, Crowder is averaging 9.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1 steal all while shooting 42% from the floor including 35% from 3-point territory.
During his 10 year career, Crowder has made the finals on two separate occasions. The most recent in 2021 as a member of the Suns’ team against Milwaukee. In that series, Crowder played very well. He averaged 37 minutes, 11.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists and steals. His biggest threat during that series came from behind the three point line where he connected on 41% of his attempts.
Crowder Trade Scenario
Bucks receive: Jae Crowder
Suns receive: Grayson Allen and 2nd round pick
Most trade scenarios that involve the Bucks’ is going to include Grayson Allen. For starters, most Wisconsinites have a love, hate relationship with Allen. A sneaky athletic and streaky shooter can leave many throwing their hands in the air at least once a week with his play. Furthermore, his annual salary is right in a sweet spot that will allow the Bucks to swap him for any number of players.
Why Crowder?
Jae Crowder is tough. He’s a physical player who isn’t going to back down from a challenge. He’s got that “dog” in him that PJ Tucker referenced in his post NBA Finals speech. Aside from that, Crowder is a versatile defender which would allow Milwaukee to deploy a bunch of different defensive schemes. He’s a solid rebounder as well. Can you imagine a playoff series where your defensive lineup is Jrue, Wes, Khris, Jae and Giannis? That would be a dangerous lineup both offensively and defensively.
Offensively, Crowder will provide spacing. His shooting ability will be a welcomed addition to the Bucks’ squad. As a well traveled NBA player, Crowder has played and fit into a multitude of schemes. There’s no reason to think he wouldn’t fit into in current Bucks’ regime.
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