The Boston Celtics still lack a foundational cornerstone. Once Danny Ainge finally finds it, though, he’s ensured the green-and-gold will already have a classic sidekick in the fold.
According to Shams Charania of RealGM, the Celtics have agreed to terms on a five-year, $35 million contract with forward Jae Crowder.
RFA Jae Crowder has reached agreement on a five-year, $35 million deal with the Boston Celtics, league sources tell RealGM.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 2, 2015
The 6’6, 235-pounder emerged as a fan favorite in Boston after being acquired from the Dallas Mavericks as part of the Rajon Rondo trade. A dogged, versatile defender and innate rebounder, Crowder has already proven himself a valuable contributor in his three professional seasons. If he can develop a respectable perimeter jumper, the Marquette product could prove this contract a steal.
As is, it seems like fair value considering Al-Farouq Aminu – a player with not just a similar role, but also strengths and weaknesses – was awarded a four-year, $30 million contract by the Portland Trail Blazers in the wee hours of Wednesday morning. Crowder is a bit more comfortable with the ball in his hands than Aminu and a better interior defender, too, perhaps affording him just a bit more obvious staying power than Portland’s new forward offers – hence the extra year.
Still, the 24-year-old isn’t a star and won’t ever be. Once he’s surrounded by top-tier talent, though, Crowder is the type of player who will thrive beyond most expectations. Kudos to the Celtics for realizing it early.
[Via Shams Charania]
