Rival GM Blasts Jae Crowder: “That’s Not A Team Player”

While trade talks continue between the Phoenix Suns and interested suitors for forward Jae Crowder, at least one team's general manager—to remain unnamed—says to count him out. 

I’d be real hesitant to get a guy who wants to be traded simply because he was told he’d have to earn his starting spot. That’s not a team player.

Crowder saw the writing on the wall this offseason, that young power forward Cam Johnson would be stepping into his starting role, and Bossman didn't like it. 

The rival GM does admit to Crowder's assets — "He’s a nice player, a veteran who has won, someone who can help you in that (3-and-D) aspect" — but the anonymous exec is not a fan of what he calls Crowder's "me-first" attitude. 

We wonder if there's any connection to a new rumor emerging today, that the Dallas Mavericks are not in on the 10-year veteran.

Suns Insider John Gambadoro reports that the Mavs are "not interested." 

Crowder, 32, started 67 games last season, averaging 9.4 points and 5.3 rebounds while providing his usual stout defense. 

In addition, despite the aforementioned GM's thoughts, he has always been a player to help rally the troops in big situations, an energy-player who steps it up when the chips are down in the playoffs. His teams have had some nice long runs in the postseason in recent years. 

If the Mavs aren't in, there are still some who appear to be. The latest reports claim that a former championship team is kicking the tires on Crowder, while another up-and-coming team might be looking for another veteran voice. 

Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports