The ramifications of the big shuffle of mediocre role-players between the Heat, Grizzlies, and Timberwolves will take a bit of time to play out. A lot of unwanted parts changed hands. Some of the unwanted parts were wanted in their new destinations, while some of them were still unwanted. It’s fair to say that Crowder is in that first category.
Make no mistake, the Heat were definitely targeting Andre Iguodala AKA Overrated Old Man and Worst Finals MVP Ever in that trade, but Jae Crowder and Solomon Hill both fit their team concept pretty well, I think. Crowder is a tough, relentless player and should meet the approval of Jimmy Butler (the guy whose approval you want to garner if you wish to be successful on the Heat). His three-point shooting disappeared while in Memphis, but it might make a reappearance in South Beach. Certainly this game, where Crowder went 5-of-8 from three, is a good omen.
Meanwhile, Justise Winslow went to the Grizzlies for a fresh start. And Dion Waiters is out of there too. The Heat came away like bandits except for the fact that they have to pretend like Iguodala’s still good and give a big role to him. In fact, I think Crowder is currently the better player when comparing him and Iguodala, and I also think that the gap between them will only get bigger. If you want to fight me over this opinion, buy me a plane ticket so I can come visit you to beat you up.