NBA Insider—and Jae Crowder Himself—Peg His 'Most Likely Landing Spot'


With the chase for the NBA crown as wide open as ever this season, there are plenty of teams who feel like they are just one veteran player short of being a true championship contender. And that one player, says NBA Insider Chris Haynes, could very well be Jae Crowder. And which team is most likely to land him? Just ask Haynes—who asked Crowder himself.

I feel like the Milwaukee Bucks will probably make that move. I spoke with Crowder about a month ago, and at that time he felt like things were pointing toward Milwaukee. So I have a hard time believing that Milwaukee is going to discontinue that pursuit.

Earlier this week, we got word, via Shams Charania, that the Bucks were actually given permission to speak one-on-one with Crowder, and have already done so. 

Crowder is on an expiring $10M contract, and perhaps the Bucks would want to ensure he won't bolt on them after the season if they are to give up some real assets to acquire him. The latest Bucks offer is said to be Jordan Nwora, Serge Ibaka and George Hill along with picks in return for the 10-year veteran. 

If a trade can't be worked out, is there any possible chance of Crowder returning to the Suns? Haynes has serious doubts.

"Something happened, and for some reason, it feels like it's beyond repair. Because if there was any chance at reconciliation I would have thought it would have been when Cam Johnson was out for a long time."

Crowder has been sitting out all season, waiting for a move. He averaged 9.7 points and 5.0 rebounds in his two years in Phoenix, while shooting 36.9% from three-point range.

 Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports