Former Celtics starter without a job may be forced into retirement…

Here’s an in-depth look at the situation surrounding a former Celtics starter now facing a tough decision—potentially forced into retirement after going unsigned this summer.

🏀 Former Celtic Jae Crowder: Career Recap

Jae Crowder, now 35, played a significant role for the Boston Celtics starting from December 2014 through 2016. Acquired in the trade that sent Rajon Rondo to Dallas, Crowder quickly became a trusted starter alongside Isaiah Thomas, helping fuel the Celtics’ resurgence and deep playoff runs—including their 2017 Eastern Conference Finals appearance.

During his 2½ seasons in Boston, Crowder appeared in 202 regular-season games, averaging 12.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per contest, shooting 44.4% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range. He emerged as a key role player—versatile defensively, reliable spot-up shooter, and a regular starter in playoff lineups.

But much has changed since then.

🕔 Declining Production & Recent Struggles

After exiting Boston, Crowder’s career trajectory shifted dramatically:

Phoenix Suns (2021–22): His last season with 60+ games played.
Milwaukee Bucks (2022–24): Saw reduced minutes and presence.
Sacramento Kings (2023–24): Played in just 9 games this past season.

Since the 2021–22 campaign, his offensive efficiency has plummeted: shooting 41.2% from the field and 35.4% from three, down from his Boston marks. At age 35, Crowder’s defensive versatility and shooting have diminished, placing him at risk in today’s hyper-competitive NBA free agent market.

⌛ Why He’s Still Unsigned

As of mid-July 2025, Crowder remains on the market with no contract offers. There are several reasons:

Age and Athletic Decline: At 35, his body and skills may no longer match NBA expectations for a rotation player.
Inefficient Shooting: Falling below 35% from three-point range undermines his value as a “3-and-D” wing.
Limited Role Fit: He may be viewed as a specialist with limited upside—less appealing to teams seeking younger or more affordable talent.

One analysis bluntly warned that, without immediate interest, Crowder may have to “call it a career”. That term—forced retirement—is increasingly mentioned across NBA circles.

⚖️ The Retirement Threshold

Crowder’s situation signals a tipping point. Players of similar profile often face two outcomes:

Veteran-Minimum Deals: Tempt some team in need of bench depth or mentorship.
No Offers → Retirement: Once training camps approach, teams finalize rosters; unsigned veterans may retire.

At 35 and with limited production, Crowder is heavily leaning toward the latter if no suitors emerge by September.

🔍 Can Any Team Still Offer a Lifeline?

It’s possible—though unlikely—that Crowder secures a minimum deal:

Contender Needs: A playoff team needing experienced wing depth might offer a short-term deal.
Locker Room Value: Crowder’s reputation for toughness and professionalism could attract a team prioritizing veteran presence.

But more realistically, teams may prefer to develop younger players, especially with salary cap limitations and new coaching philosophies prioritizing pace, space, and youth.

🧭 Broader Implications

Crowder’s predicament mirrors a pattern for aging role players:

Veteran Decline: Performance drop-off often coincides with the emergence of younger, more efficient players.
Market Saturation: Role-player slots shrink as analytic-driven scouting favors youth and upside.
Cultural Shift: NBA teams lean toward flexibility; 2-way contracts and development projects take precedence.

For Crowder, time is running out.

📌 What Happens If Crowder Retires?

Should he retire:

Career Stats: Crowder finishes with respectable averages—~10 PPG, ~5 RPG, career FG ~43%, 3P ~34%.
Legacy: Remembered fondly in Boston: a gritty, versatile “glue” player during their postseason rise.
Post-NBA Paths: Potential roles include player development, broadcasting, coaching, or basketball operations. His profile fits many former NBA players who transition into mentorship or media.

🔚 Final Thoughts

Jae Crowder’s situation highlights the brutal reality of the NBA lifecycle:

Reality	Description
Once a key Celtics starter (2014–17)	Crowd-favorite and starter in deep playoff runs
Recent years	Limited to nine games last season, declining efficiency
Market reality	Remains unsigned; risk of forced retirement increases
Potential futures	Minimum deal, overseas contract, or NBA retirement