The Sacramento Kings are nearing a deal to bring in a seasoned enforcer. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Kings are close to signing veteran forward Jae Crowder, adding much-needed experience to a roster in need of a spark.
Jae Crowder: The Proven Warrior Comes to Sacramento
Sacramento’s front office has been eyeing Crowder since September, when the 34-year-old forward worked out for the team. After spending the last year and a half with the Milwaukee Bucks, Crowder posted averages of 6.2 points and 3.2 rebounds in 50 games last season, making 25 starts. Known for his toughness and three-and-D reliability, Crowder’s addition could be a key move for a Kings squad trying to find its identity after a rough stretch.
Jae Crowder is no stranger to the grind, having appeared in over 800 regular-season games since his NBA debut back in 2012. Across 12 seasons, Crowder has been the embodiment of a veteran presence-averaging 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His shooting splits of .419/.348/.777 showcase a solid, dependable role player who has made his name on contending teams such as Boston, Cleveland, Utah, Miami, and Phoenix. In his prime, Crowder was an essential piece in deep playoff runs, giving his teams the defensive grit and perimeter shooting they needed.
Filling a Void with Crowder’s Grit
The Kings have a glaring need for a boost. With an open roster spot and sitting $3.7 million below the luxury tax line, Sacramento has the perfect opportunity to bring Crowder into the fold without financial hurdles. The timing couldn’t be better as the Kings need a veteran who has been through the battles and who can help guide their younger core through the rough waters they are currently navigating.
Sacramento has dropped its last four games, falling to an 8-10 record on the season. Crowder’s no-nonsense style and versatility could be just what’s required to help the Kings weather the storm and regain momentum in the Western Conference.
Trey Lyles Injury: More Reason to Pull the Trigger
The news of Crowder’s imminent signing comes as the Kings deal with an injury blow. Trey Lyles is set to miss time with a Grade 1 right calf strain, following an MRI, as reported by James Ham of The Kings Beat. Lyles will be reevaluated in three to four weeks. He’s been a steady contributor off the bench, appearing in 18 games this season, with two starts, and averaging 5.4 points and 3.9 rebounds in just under 20 minutes a game. With Lyles out, Crowder could step into a similar role, providing depth and experience to fill the void.
Can Crowder Help the Kings Snap Their Losing Streak?
Sacramento needs an answer-fast. With a roster full of potential but struggling to deliver consistency, Crowder could be the missing piece to help stabilize things. His wealth of experience, playoff pedigree, and the ability to impact games without needing the ball in his hands makes him a low-risk, high-reward signing. As Sacramento fights to get back on track, Crowder’s signing might just be the breath of fresh air the Kings need.
The message is clear for the Kings: The time to turn things around is now, and Jae Crowder is ready to bring his no-quit mentality to a team that could use a heavy dose of exactly that.