According to The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, multiple teams have expressed interest in acquiring Houston Rockets veteran forward P.J. Tucker via trade. The 35-year-old is now in his 10th NBA season and has been with the Rockets’ organization since 2017.
Teams inquiring about Tucker’s availability likely sense an opportunity to trade for the veteran due to the Rockets’ trading superstar James Harden—the face of the franchise for eight seasons—to the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday.
Due to his age and close relationship with Harden, trading Tucker could ultimately benefit both he and Houston, enhancing team chemistry while removing a potentially disgruntled player from the locker room.
A versatile defender with experience guarding players all over the frontcourt despite being 6’5,” Tucker can open up a plethora of small-ball opportunities for whatever team acquires him. While his strength and girth allow him to compensate for his lack of height, he’s developed into a reliable enough outside shooter to keep opposing defenses honest.
Tucker has averaged 5.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 0.9 blocks per game this season while shooting a career-high .520 from 3-point range. He’s averaged 6.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game while shooting .373 from 3-point range since joining the Rockets.
