Dallas Mavericks: 5 ‘tough vets’ to pursue this upcoming free agency

Jae Crowder

A former member of the Dallas Mavericks for nearly two and a half years, Jae Crowder should be very high up on their list of free-agent targets in hopes of a reunion. Crowder is the prototypical mold of a 3-and-D wing player, a position that will make him a highly sought after target once free agency begins.

Currently a member of the red-hot Miami Heat, Crowder wasted no time fitting in after coming aboard mid-season through trade. They preach toughness down in Miami, and with Jimmy Butler leading the way, Crowder has been right at home. This predicament could make it difficult to pry him away from South Beach once he hits free agency this offseason, but it would certainly be worth a try with a player of his capabilities on the line.

In terms of toughness, Crowder needs no introduction. Former NBA teammate Jared Sullinger recalled a story several years ago of he and Crowder were on opposite sides of the court in college, and the two almost got into it because Sullinger was simply talking with Crowder’s then-teammate Vander Blue.

The moment blossomed into respect, as Sullinger put it, “From there on, I knew I could always ride with Jae because he’s going to fight for you.” Which is exactly what the Mavericks need. Not an instigator, but a player who is going to ride for his teammates seven days a week when things get rough.

In 20 regular-season games with the Miami Heat, Crowder was fantastic, averaging 11.9 points per game on 48.2 percent field goal shooting and 44.5 percent 3-point shooting. Playing some fantastic basketball, Crowder could demand a hefty payday in the wake of free agency. Still, the Dallas Mavericks should test the waters on a potential reunion with the 30-year-old swingman.