Signed and Back in Action! Two-Time NBA Finals Forward Returns to the League

In a move aimed at addressing their growing list of injuries, the Sacramento Kings are reportedly finalizing a deal with veteran forward Jae Crowder, according to insider Shams Charania. The 34-year-old could make his debut as early as the Kings’ upcoming game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Crowder, a 13-year NBA veteran, last played for the Milwaukee Bucks during the 2022-23 season. Across 50 games, including 25 starts, he averaged 6.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 23.1 minutes per game, shooting 42.2% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range. However, Crowder became a free agent after the season and found himself without a contract over the summer, sparking speculation about whether his NBA career was over.

The Kings have now offered him a chance to extend his career in the league rather than seeking opportunities overseas, such as in the CBA or other international leagues.

Why the Kings Need Jae Crowder

The Kings’ decision to sign Crowder stems from their current injury crisis. Up to 10 players on their roster are dealing with injuries, leaving the team in desperate need of depth and veteran leadership. Crowder’s experience, which includes two consecutive NBA Finals appearances with the Miami Heat in 2020 and the Phoenix Suns in 2021, makes him a valuable addition to the team, even if his skills have declined in recent years.

Although Crowder fell short of winning a championship in both appearances, his playoff pedigree and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor are assets for a Kings team that has struggled to find its footing this season.

Sacramento’s Struggles

Despite an ambitious offseason, the Kings are underperforming. The addition of All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan, alongside returning stars De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, had raised expectations for a playoff push. However, Sacramento currently sits at 8-10, ranking 12th in the Western Conference.

Recent results have been particularly disappointing, with the team losing six of their last seven games, highlighting the need for reinforcements.

Fox’s Phenomenal Form Overshadowed

De’Aaron Fox has been a bright spot for Sacramento, playing some of the best basketball of his career. Over the past six games, Fox has averaged an eye-popping 37.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 1.9 steals, including a career-high 60-point performance. He’s shooting an impressive 56.7% from the field and 51.5% from three-point range during this stretch.

At just 26 years old, Fox appears to be hitting his prime. For the season, he’s averaging a career-high 28.1 points per game on 50.4% shooting, ranking seventh in the league in scoring. However, his individual brilliance has not translated to team success, earning him the unfortunate label of a “statistical standout on a losing team.”

The Scoring Race and League Leaders

Fox’s scoring prowess is remarkable, but he remains far from the league’s scoring elite this season. The top scorers in the NBA include:

• Giannis Antetokounmpo (32.4 PPG)
• LaMelo Ball (31.0 PPG)
• Anthony Davis (30.1 PPG)
• Nikola Jokić (29.7 PPG)
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (29.2 PPG)
• Jayson Tatum (28.4 PPG)

Fox’s efforts may not be enough to propel him into the scoring title conversation, nor do they seem likely to secure the Kings a winning record at their current trajectory.

What Crowder Brings to the Table

Jae Crowder’s role on the Kings will likely be one of stabilization and leadership. While his numbers have declined, Crowder has built a career on being a reliable 3-and-D player capable of defending multiple positions and knocking down timely shots.

Sacramento will hope his presence can help ease the load on Fox and Sabonis, allowing the team to stay competitive while they navigate this challenging period. For Crowder, this is an opportunity to prove he still belongs in the league and can contribute to a team with playoff aspirations.

As the Kings prepare for their next game, all eyes will be on whether Crowder can make an immediate impact and help turn the team’s season around. For now, one thing is clear: Jae Crowder isn’t done with the NBA just yet.