Rumor: Boston Celtics could bring back former fan favorite

The summer of 2022 was one that was full of rumors for the Boston Celtics. The most prominent was that the Cs were looking to ship Jaylen Brown to Brooklyn in exchange for Kevin Durant. In late August, Durant pulled his trade request and the rumors died.

There was also a swirling rumor in recent weeks that Boston would be interested in bringing in Carmelo Anthony after Danillo Gallinari tore his ACL. Reports surfaced that the Celtics were not interested in the 37-year-old and would instead be looking to fill the void internally.

On Monday evening, the Boston Celtics found themselves tied to yet another player. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that Boston is a team to keep an eye on when it comes to disgruntled Phoenix Suns wing Jae Crowder.

Crowder spent two-and-a-half seasons in Boston after coming over from Dallas as part of the Rajon Rondo trade back in December 2014. He was a key part of the 2016-17 team that landed atop the Eastern Conference standings. During that season, Crowder nearly shot 40% from deep while averaging just under 14 points per game. He was beloved by many fans because of his grit and toughness. Crowder’s time with the C’s came to an end in the summer of 2017, when he was dealt to Cleveland as part of the Kyrie Irving trade.

What it would take for the Boston Celtics to land Derrick White in a trade

In order for Boston to bring back Jae Crowder, they’d likely have to include Derrick White in the trade to match salary. Another way they’d be able to work out a deal would be to send Danilo Gallinari’s contract to Phoenix, but the Suns are trying to compete and would likely need more in the deal.

Crowder played 67 games for the Suns last season. He averaged nine points and five rebounds in just over 28 minutes per game. He shot just under 35% from beyond the arc in the process.