5 Teams that could poach Jae Crowder from the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency
By Dalton Sell
Miami Heat
When Jae Crowder was on the trade block in back 2023, it felt like he would inevitably end up with the Milwaukee Bucks or Miami Heat, given that those were the two teams generating the most buzz when his name was brought up. Of course, he ended up with the former, but it wouldn't be overly surprising if the tides turned this time around.
The Heat know Crowder, as he played for them during the 2019-20 season, having served as a crucial piece during their run to the NBA Finals. He has familiarity with that roster and coaching staff, as most of the key pieces, such as Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and Erik Spoelstra, were all there, so that may be an interesting selling point for both parties.
Miami also has several forwards set to hit free agency. Caleb Martin and Kevin Love both hold player options, while Haywood Highsmith is an unrestricted free agent. If any of those players depart, which seems likely that not all of them will be back, Miami could target Crowder as a low-cost alternative to replenish their forward depth.
For years, the Heat have been seeking a power forward who fits next to Bam Adebayo, and one could argue that Crowder was the best-fitting option they've had, so bringing him back would be valid.