KEY POINTS

  • Crabbe to undergo probation for DUI charge
  • NBA teams likely to pass on Crabbe
  • Crabbe can still rectify his off-court issues and aim for an NBA return this summer

Allen Crabbe was recently waived by the Minnesota Timberwolves, making him eligible to join NBA playoff-bound teams. Though he has not performed impressively this season, a change in scenery could help him recover his old form. Unfortunately, a drunk driving (DUI) case may have just snuffed out all hope of seeing that happen.

In a report from TMZ Sports, the 27-year-old struck a plea deal in his drunk driving case. Though he will not be behind bars, he will be under probation. This was in relation to a June 26 case where he was pulled over in West Hollywood with authorities claiming Crabbe showed signs of driving under the influence. He was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete 2 DUI education courses.

This season, Crabbe played in 37 games and averaged 4.6 points and 2.1 rebounds in 17.6 minutes of actions. Though he is a wingman, those are numbers unlikely to convince NBA teams to sign him. He had his best years with the Brooklyn Nets back during the 2017-18 NBA season, averaging 13.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Things just went downhill from there.

In a previous post, it was mentioned how Crabbe would have been an ideal fit for the Philadelphia 76ers. Philly is severely shorthanded right now and could use someone who has a good touch from the outside. Crabbe holds career averages of 47.1 percent from the field and 38.7 percent from three-point territory.

Other teams who could take a chance on him include the Chicago Bulls or even the Golden State Warriors. But of course, the Bulls and Warriors are out of the playoff picture. If Crabbe were to join them, it would be an audition for the next NBA season. However, ballclubs also consider off-court problems. They are unlikely to take a chance on players who could be distractions moving forward.

If that is the case, the best Crabbe can do is wait until the summer and see if any team would be willing to take him in. It won't be easy but he is only 27 years old. Crabbe can still correct his ways and direct himself to the right path. It would be best to start that as early as now.

Allen Crabbe of the Minnesota Timberwolves
Allen Crabbe of the Minnesota Timberwolves Getty Images | David Berding