Contrary to the suggested rumors, Jae Crowder has some other personal reasons which prompted him to request a divorce from the Phoenix Suns
In a personal statement he handed on TNT’s Chris Haynes, Crowder denied the narrative that he reached out with the Suns for a trade because of an unsecured opportunity to start for the team this 2022-2023 season.
“Honestly, this is unfamiliar ground for me,” Crowder said about his estranged situation via his personal note, as read by Haynes. “This is my 11th year and I’ve always been in the camp … The business of basketball has taken its course and changes have come. I do not want to get to the details just yet, but it’s definitely not true that the narrative being forced about me not starting [made me request for a trade].
“I had two great years with my teammates and the fans of Phoenix. I do not take that for granted. I’m forever grateful for the moments we shared.”
Following reports that he ultimately requested a trade, it was revealed by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst that the embattled veteran expressed his intent to land on a new team after learning that he might lose his starting job in Phoenix.
Other than the murmurs of not starting, the idea that Crowder being slated to hit contract year stands as another context of chirpings within league circles. As wingman Cam Johnson was pegged all offseason long for a major role and a new contract, Crowder’s time appeared ticking around the franchise.
For now, the 32-year-old remains away from the Suns, as the franchise continues to locate a justifiable offer from interested teams. As such, the likes of Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks and the Miami Heat were reportedly on the radar to acquire his reliability and 3-and-D capabilities.
