Jae Crowder Gains Attention From Eastern Conference Contender

The Jae Crowder trade rumors have taken on a new spin, with the Atlanta Hawks now expected to go after the veteran forward’s services.

It has become apparent that the Jae Crowder trade rumors have now traveled to Atlanta, with Shams Charania of The Athletic reporting that the Hawks are interested in acquiring the 3-and-D services of the Phoenix Suns forward. Charania also said that the Hawks front office sees Crowder as a perfect fit alongside Trae Young, John Collins, and newly-acquired combo guard Dejounte Murray. By trading for an elite two-way talent in Murray, it’s obvious that the Hawks have championship aspirations this season, and getting a tough-minded veteran like Crowder is definitely a path toward success.

Crowder, who was the 34th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, has established his name as one of the best role players in the league today. He showed glimpses of that 3-and-D potential during his first two years with the Dallas Mavericks, but it was when he moved to the Boston Celtics camp that his game truly showed out. The 32-year-old combo forward has also played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, and Memphis Grizzlies, and had two separate NBA Finals stints for the Suns and the Miami Heat.

Crowder averaged 9.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.4 steals for the Suns last season. His three-point shooting efficiency dropped from 38.9% to 34.8%, but it doesn’t diminish the versatility that he brings to the table, especially on the defensive end of the floor. However, Crowder and the Suns have already agreed that they will part ways in the upcoming 2022-23 season, which could essentially end the former’s productive two-year stint with the team. It remains to be seen what more the Jae Crowder trade rumors will reel in, but there’s no doubt that he’ll gain much attention from other contenders.