Reports: Phoenix Suns have re-engaged in Jae Crowder trade talk after Cam Johnson’s injury
The Phoenix Suns are still thriving despite the number of injuries they've experienced over the past week. However, the team isn't content and has re-engaged in trade talks concerning disgruntled forward Jae Crowder.
Cameron Johnson suffered an injury against the Portland Trail Blazers on Nov. 4. After an MRI showed that the forward suffered a torn meniscus, fans raised their concerns for the Suns' depth. So far after Johnson's injury, the team has a 2-1 record.
The big concern for Phoenix right now is getting a trade partner for Crowder. Over the offseason, the organization and the forward had a falling out. This led to both sides mutually agreeing to find the former a trade destination. However, there have been no developments so far.
Report: Jae Crowder trade talks have started to pick up in the last few days ahnfiredigital.com/nba/phoenix-su…
ESPN's Brian Windhorst said that the Suns have re-opened trade converstations regarding Crowder. This came after the team discovered the seriousness of Cam Johnson's injury.
"In the last few days, from what I understand, the Suns have picked up their Jae Crowder conversations and tried to reengage on some old talks, so I am told," Windhorst said.
"Now, does that mean they will find a deal? Obviously, they’ve had some impetus to do that. It was bad news when Cam Johnson got hurt, but good news he was able to have a surgery where it was a partial removal as opposed to a repair, which would have meant him being out for the year."
The Suns are 8-3, thanks to their fantastic teamwork. Phoenix also suffered another injury after Chris Paul was seen limping on the court against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. Despite this massive hit, the Suns were able to overcome the Minnesota Timberwolves in a lopsided 129-117 win on Wednesday.
Also read: What happened between Phoenix Suns and forward Jae Crowder and why is he inactive while being available for trade: All you need to know
The Phoenix Suns should play Crowder to increase his value
Crowder has helped the Phoenix Suns organization immensely over the past two seasons. With the 6-foot-6 forward, the team reached the NBA Finals. Despite losing to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, Crowder's veteran leadership helped the young squad be focused.
It's understandable that the nine-year forward wants to play for a team that wants him, which is why he chose to sit out for the Suns. However, he isn't helping his case by doing this. He's decreasing his value by not suiting up. The team wants a good return package, and Crowder won't be able to provide that if he continues to refuse to play.
As of now, the Suns are holding their own without Johnson in the lineup. But who knows what could happen in the next few games?
Also read: Watch: Jae Crowder posts hyped-up practice tape as his situation with Phoenix Suns remains unresolved