In a stunning move this summer, the Sacramento Kings acquired DeMar DeRozan from the Chicago Bulls in a sign-and-trade deal, making waves in the NBA. The Kings also made a number of additional moves to bolster their roster, such as re-signing Malik Monk and Alex Len, acquiring Jalen McDaniels and Jordan McLaughlin, and drafting Devin Carter. However, they bid farewell to players like Harrison Barnes, Sasha Vezenkov, and Davion Mitchell, as well as some role players.
Despite finishing the previous season with a respectable 46-36 record, the Kings slipped from the No. 3 seed to the No. 9 seed, missing out on the playoffs in 2024. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the Kings are determined to make a comeback and secure a playoff spot once again. Rumors suggest that they are eyeing more veteran additions to enhance their lineup.
One player that the Kings are reportedly interested in is free agent forward Jae Crowder, a seasoned player with a history of deep playoff runs. According to Kings reporter Sean Cunningham, Crowder will be working out with the team in the near future. This news comes after the Kings also recently held a workout for Isaiah Thomas, another former teammate of Crowder’s.
Throughout his 12-year NBA career, Crowder has made a name for himself with two NBA Finals appearances and three conference finals appearances. While he may not be the same player he was during the 2021 NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns, Crowder still brings valuable skills to the table. Known for his 3-and-D abilities, Crowder could provide the Kings with both depth and experience on the court.
Despite his age, Crowder remains a solid contributor and could be a valuable asset for the Kings in the upcoming season. While he may not be a starter, he could make a significant impact coming off the bench when needed. With training camp just around the corner, reaching a contract agreement with Crowder could prove to be a low-risk, high-reward move for both the player and the team.
As the offseason progresses, it’s surprising that Crowder has yet to sign with a team. With his ability to still play at a high level and contribute in the playoffs, it’s only a matter of time before the 34-year-old finds a new home in the NBA. Whether it’s with the Kings or another team, Crowder’s experience and skill set will undoubtedly be an asset to any team that takes a chance on him.