5 Teams that could poach Jae Crowder from the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency
By Dalton Sell
After a season and a half, Jae Crowder's time with the Milwaukee Bucks has likely come to an end.
Since coming aboard at the 2023 NBA Trade Deadline, Crowder never quite lived up to the moniker of big wing defender that this team needed him to be. His role faded into obscurity in back-to-back trips to the NBA Playoffs, averaging just 10.4 minutes per game across eight contests.
With the Milwaukee Bucks likely to emphasize stocking up on as much youth and athleticism as they can in the off-season, the soon-to-be 34-year-old will likely head elsewhere. Even if he didn't dazzle in Milwaukee, several teams might be willing to take a flyer on a low-cost, experienced 3-and-D wing with Crowder's reputation.
That said, let us pick out five teams who could be Crowder's next stop as he enters free agency.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Bursting onto the scene with a Western Conference Finals appearance after defeating the defending champs this past season, the Minnesota Timberwolves affirmed that they are a legitimate contender. Moving forward, they won't have much money to make splashy free-agent moves, instead relying on a move or two around the edges.
One such move could involve adding Crowder, especially if Minnesota loses key cog Kyle Anderson. After a strong 2023-24, the veteran forward could be due for a raise, and his future in Minnesota is far from guaranteed. If he bolts for a better offer, the Timberwolves will need another veteran forward to take his place, and Crowder could fit the bill.
Though not as impactfully, Crowder could take on Anderson's role, giving Minnesota a versatile piece who can play either forward spot, defend well and provide perimeter shooting. Those qualities make him an easy fit next to the core of Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert. If they do lose Anderson, this would be an incredibly low-risk move to add another forward.