Longtime NBA guard Jamal Crawford recently called 2018/19 the “most challenging” year of his career so far, but that doesn’t mean he’s ready to retire at season’s end. Despite a dip in his numbers with the Suns (6.6 PPG on .373/.302/.822 shooting), Crawford is adamant that he’s not considering calling it a career quite yet. Speaking to Gina Mizell of The Athletic, the 39-year-old explained his thinking.
“Oh, no,” Crawford said to Mizell when asked about retirement. “That’s the part I hate — the perception because of how things went this year. You may look at the numbers and (see) I’m only taking six shots a game. I think it’s to be applauded (for me to) say, ‘Hey, when I go in, I’m not going to jack up every shot.’ … This is the most assists I’ve averaged (since 2008/09). I’m truly trying to see others grow. I think we should look at that part of it. I’m passing more than I ever have.”
Crawford’s conversation with Mizell touched on several other topics and, if you’re an Athletic subscriber, it’s worth checking out in full. Here are a few more of the veterans’ noteworthy comments from the Q&A:
On why Crawford referred to this season as the most challenging of his career:
“First off, my family isn’t here. This is the first time we’ve been separated, because I signed so late. I’m playing point guard more than I ever have. It’s not a bad thing; it’s just a different challenge. And then I’m a big rhythm and flow type of player, so I think the minutes (I’m playing) have been challenging to try to somehow still be effective. And then losing. I’ve only missed the playoffs once this decade, and the one time I missed it before this year was the lockout season (in 2011/12).”
On his priorities heading into free agency this summer:
“Fit will be important for me. I’m an acquired taste. I get it. What I bring to the table is an acquired thing. This is the first year since 2002 I haven’t averaged double figures. (I did it) 16 straight years. I’ve won two out of the last five Sixth Man (of the Year) Awards. I think fit is so important for me.”
On the importance of veterans like him in NBA locker rooms:
“Every team needs them, to be honest with you. No disrespect to young players, because when I came in, I was on the youngest team in the league my first two years. But I didn’t start learning to become a pro until I got veterans around me. Charles Oakley. Rick Brunson. Scottie Pippen. All these guys. I think we need more veteran players in locker rooms, because they’ve been through it. If they can tell young guys something that they maybe (don’t have) to experience, that they can learn from, then why not?”
His face doesn’t age. Looks exactly the same since 2000
Great person. Hope plays 2 more yrs and retires after 20
Huge NYK fan. Been watching Jamal since NYK days.
he was supposed to be a deadline trade chip but ran out of gas this yr