Sacramento Kings Sign Veteran Forward Jae Crowder

On November 26, 2024, the Sacramento Kings reported that they are on the verge of securing a deal with free agent forward Jae Crowder. This strategic move comes as the Kings seek to improve their current standing of 8-10 amidst a wave of injuries and recent losses.

A Strong Addition to the Roster

Crowder, a 13-year NBA veteran, has had a significant career, participating in two NBA Finals—once with the Miami Heat in 2020 and again with the Phoenix Suns in 2021. His experience and competitive spirit are expected to provide the Kings with the much-needed vigor in their roster. Crowder most recently played for the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged 6.2 points and 3.2 rebounds over the course of last season.

The Kings announced that Crowder could be available to play as soon as their upcoming road game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His addition comes as forward Trey Lyles recovers from a Grade 1 calf strain, sidelining him for several weeks. The Kings have also reported that DeMar DeRozan is dealing with lower back muscle inflammation, creating an urgent need for depth in the squad.

Crowder’s Career Highlights

Jae Crowder's career has seen him don the jerseys of multiple teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, and most recently, the Bucks. Over his career, he has averaged:

• 9.3 points per game
• 4.2 rebounds
• 1.6 assists
• A shooting percentage of 41.9% from the field, 34.8% from three-point range, and 77.7% from the free-throw line.

During his time with the Celtics, particularly in the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons, Crowder was pivotal, averaging around 14 points and 5 rebounds per game.

What This Means for the Kings

Sacramento's recent struggles culminated in a four-game losing streak, putting the focus on their new acquisitions, particularly Crowder. The Kings initially added DeRozan to strengthen their frontcourt, expecting increased performance alongside De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. However, with the recent injuries hampering team cohesion, the integration of Crowder is viewed as a critical component for success in the coming months.

Crowder’s skill set as a three-and-D player—known for his defensive tenacity and ability to hit from beyond the arc—will be invaluable, especially as the Kings navigate their early season difficulties.

Conclusion

The Sacramento Kings are optimistic that bringing in Jae Crowder will bolster their roster, improve team chemistry, and turn around their season trajectory. As Crowder prepares to make his debut, fans are eager to see how his presence will impact the Kings' efforts toward playoff contention.

With the Kings currently sitting $3.7 million below the luxury tax line and having an open roster spot, the signing of Crowder for a one-year deal estimated at $2,620,232 aligns with their financial strategy as they seek to build a competitive team for the future.