Heat Interested In Trade For Suns' Jae Crowder

The Suns are still seeking a trade partner for forward Jae Crowder and the Heat have widely been considered among those interested.

Along with the Heat, Crowder has been linked to the Cavaliers, Celtics, Grizzlies and Mavericks — though it has been reported that the Mavs aren’t really all that interested.

Meanwhile, Miami lost P.J. Tucker to the 76ers in free agency and are trying to fill his spot. So a trade for Crowder may make more sense for the Heat than anyone.

But it won’t be easy. The Heat may not be able to find the salary to match Crowder’s and make a trade work until the likes of Victor Oladipo, Caleb Martin and Dewayne Dedmon become trade-eligible later in the season, as relayed by RealGM.

Then again, that’s OK. It may not be December or January until we see a Crowder trade.

Last season, Crowder appeared in and started 67 games, averaging 9.4 points on 40 percent shooting, to go with 5.3 rebounds and some strong perimeter defense.

But he was set to lose his starting role with the Suns to Cam Johnson. Prior to training camp, Crowder tweeted out a message that seemed to explain why he is seeking a trade.

“One must seek work where he is wanted… where he is needed!” he wrote. “I am thankful for what these past two years have taught me. Now, I must take on another challenge with continued hard work and dedication. For those of you who closed the door on me… Thank you! 99 back soon!”

Since then, Crowder has been sitting out as the Suns seek a deal. And while it may be a bit, many in league circles do suspect Miami is where he will end up next.