New Orleans Pelicans: 3 players from NBA Finals to target in free agency

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Jae Crowder would add toughness to the New Orleans Pelicans (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

New Orleans Pelicans realistic free agents from NBA Finals: Jae Crowder

Jae Crowder

Jae Crowder has bounced around a lot, playing with six different teams in his eight seasons in the league.

Crowder fits the profile of someone the Pelicans desperately need: a big wing who can defend and knock down open 3-point shots.

Crowder is 6-foot-6, 235 lbs. but can defend just about any position on the floor. He can step out on the perimeter to close out on wings and guards or bang with centers in the post.

Crowder would give the Pelicans a ton of defensive flexibility, as he could potentially defend centers in small ball lineups with Zion Williamson at the five.

Crowder is not a lights-out 3-point shooter by any means, but he hit 34.3 percent this season and has knocked down some huge shots in the playoffs.

He fills a lot of holes for the Pelicans, as he is the big wing they need but also brings toughness and playoff experience to this young team.

The big question with Crowder is not fit, but contract, as he is making $7.8 million in the final year of his contract and will probably be looking for a raise.

If Crowder ends up getting $12 million a year, the Pelicans are probably out, but if he is closer to what he is making now, they might at least be at the table.

A lot of teams are looking for the things Crowder can do, so there is likely to be competition for his services. The Pelicans would have to hope that he saw the fit and potential with this team and chose New Orleans over other suitors.

Crowder is a nice fit, but ultimately a longshot.