PJ Tucker landed with the LA Clippers as part of the trade with the Philadelphia 76ers that sent James Harden to LA.
However, since joining the Clippers, the forward has made it clear that he was unhappy with the role he was dealt by head coach Tyronn Lue. Finally, after months of frustration building up, Tucker's wish was finally granted.
“The Clippers and forward PJ Tucker have mutually agreed for the 13-year NBA veteran to be away from the team as the sides work toward a resolution for his future,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Sunday.
At 39, Tucker may not have a lot to offer on a nightly basis, but the longtime veteran has made a career for himself as a pest on the defensive end.
That said, a player who knows his role and openly asks for the assignment to defend the opposing team’s best player would be welcomed by a team like the Los Angeles Lakers.
Los Angeles general manager Rob Pelinka is known for signing ring-chasing veterans and Tucker would be a prime candidate to join the Lakers as the team hopes to contend.
The Texas product would not only provide consistent minutes off the bench when needed, but his ability to be a reliable 3-and-D player during the postseason could pay for a cheap contract on its own.
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