Jae Crowder, Cleveland Cavaliers
When it became clear that Gordon Hayward would not be returning to Utah, one of the hot topics for Jazz fans on social media was whether the team could swing some kind of sign-and-trade with the Boston Celtics. In other words, they wanted Jae Crowder as a consolation prize.
He seemed like a natural fit in Utah; a mobile three/four tweener who plays with energy on both ends of the floor and can stretch the D a little too. His 14-6 and 40 percent from three stat line in 2016-17 was tantalizing. Crowder seemed like a fine complement to the Stifle Tower.
Alas, it wasn’t to be. Eventually, he was shipped to Cleveland as part of the C’s trade package for Kyrie Irving. It seemed like the Cavs would really benefit from his diverse skill set. Instead, he’s been an awkward fit next to LeBron James, Kevin Love and Co., dropping down to single-digit scoring and losing some of his flair from deep.
He could find his way again with the Jazz, the same club his father Corey played for in the ’90s. Crowder would also come on one of the most team-friendly deals in the league. If the Cavs miss out on DeAndre Jordan, maybe a package including Derrick Favors would curry their favor here.
Next: Dallas Mavericks