New York Knicks: Three options to improve the bench next season

Jae Crowder

Jae Crowder has had a bit of a bumpy road during the 2019-20 season. After starting the season with the Grizzlies, Crowder was traded to the Miami Heat at the deadline.

Between his 45 games with the Grizzlies and 12 with the Heat, Crowder has only shot 38 percent from the field and just under 32 percent from downtown, both below his career averages.

Crowder, who will turn 30 in July, has made his living off being a 3-and-D player. Like Ojeleye, Crowder is a muscular wing player who can guard multiple positions, including taller wing players.

The Miami Heat will have some difficult decisions to make in free agency. Crowder, Kelly Olynyk, Gordan Dragic, and Derrick Jones Jr. will be free agents, and many expect the Heat to go after new additions as well. The 23-year-old Derrick Jones Jr. has been a terrific defender this season and would have made this list, but I expect the Heat to lock him up and let Crowder walk.

A common analysis of Crowder throughout his career has been how great his motor is. He’s the kind of player who brings intensity night in and night out, an energy that the Knicks seem to be missing.

Again, the idea of signing Crowder may not be cause for celebration, but he can be a key, short-term piece. At 30 years old, Crowder still has some years of prime play remaining.

Crowder has been a part of some great playoff teams in his time with the Celtics, Jazz, and Cavaliers. He has the playoff experience that the Knicks don’t have, and he could become a great influence on some of the Knicks’ younger players.