Why a Jae Crowder trade does not make sense for the Dallas Mavericks

Adding Jae Crowder could throw off the Dallas Mavericks' chemistry

Head coach Jason Kidd has preached chemistry and accountability since arriving in Dallas in the summer of 2021. The Hall of Fame point guard got every player to buy into their role last season, and it helped the team win their first playoff series since 2011 and advance to the conference finals. Talent is one thing, but everyone needs to be on the same page, especially in the postseason.

The Mavs front office improved their frontcourt this offseason as they traded for Christian Wood and signed JaVale McGee in free agency. Wood is in a contract year, so he is looking to prove that he can translate his production to a winning situation.

Coach Kidd plans to bring Wood off the bench to start the season. Will the 6’10 forward be on board with that plan after starting the last two seasons in Houston? McGee is expected to start at the five, but only play 20 minutes per game, which should open up starter’s minutes for Wood, even if he is not in the opening group.

Adding Crowder further complicates an already delicate situation. The Mavericks would have to find at least 25 minutes for the 6’6 forward and some of those would come at the expense of playing Wood, which could turn things into a messy situation quickly.