4 Bucks who could be forced into retirement after the season

2. Jae Crowder

Crowder has been a key role player on ten different playoff teams. Having a 6’6 forward capable of guarding multiple positions and spacing the floor is a plus. It is why the Bucks gave up five second-round draft picks to acquire him at the 2023 deadline, but Crowder has struggled in Cream City.

This season, he missed two months with an abdominal injury and has struggled to make a massive impact, despite the team’s need for help on the wings. Crowder is averaging 6.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.9 steals in 23.7 minutes per game. The Bucks hoped he would play a larger role and offer more. They have a negative-2.2 net rating with Crowder on the floor this season.

He fell out of the playoff rotation in 2023 and might again in 2024. The 33-year-old is declining and becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The Bucks or another contender will likely offer him a minimum contract because he helps his team win. Crowder does not have a ring, but his team is in the playoffs nearly every year. His reputation could evaporate if he struggles mightily in the postseason and becomes unplayable for a second straight year. The 6’6 forward has plenty to prove and is worth watching closely for the rest of the season.