Jae Crowder, not Andre Iguodala, has been impressing the Miami Heat as a member of the players acquired in the Justise Winslow trade.
A clear frustration broke out among the Miami Heat fandom when they dealt prized, young, point forward Justise Winslow. He’s had his fair share of injuries, but has been a key piece to their team when healthy and playing on the floor at only 24-years old.
But Pat Riley, as he is known to, made a business decision and dealt Winslow to the Memphis Grizzlies for veteran wings Andre Iguodala, Jae Crowder, and Solomon Hill. The three took the places of Winslow, James Johnson, and Dion Waiters who each ended up elsewhere.
As the 2015 Finals MVP and three-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, Iguodala was the eye-grabbing name to this trade. Crowder was amidst a career-worst shooting slump, and the Heat make for Hill’s third team in two seasons.
Fans were upset that Riley would make a play involving Winslow for a 37-year old veteran wing who’d had yet to play this year. But then Crowder took the floor for Miami and took South Beach by storm. In 15 games alone, he’s become a fan favorite and is already starting for the Heat.
His nature as an intimidator and enforcer on the floor fit right into this famous Heat culture. Crowder’s added another face to a Miami defense that’s already tough with personality. It also helps that he’s a 41 percent shooter from three, which as you likely know, fits this team like glue.
Spoelstra playing Crowder into the starting lineup, both for his defense and offensive capability, not only signals just how good he is; but raises the chances of his future in Miami. Now in his eighth year, he’s averaging 11.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 steals for the Heat.
Meanwhile, Iguodala remains on the bench, albeit while inspiring on defense. The 37-year old swingman is touching every bit of the floor: 4.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
When it comes to overall production and flexibility within this Miami Heat system, it appears that Jae Crowder will prove a more beneficial addition than Andre Iguodala. Both are playing well, but this has proven a pleasant surprise for fans and South Beach natives.
Crowder will look to continue impressing as a member of this new Miami starting five when the Heat face the Boston Celtics on Tuesday. Tip-off is at 6:30 pm est, with coverage provided by TNT.