New York Knicks signed 39-year-old veteran forward P.J. Tucker to a 10-day contract despite him not playing in nearly a year, valuing his championship experience, toughness, and enforcer mentality to bolster their locker room as they push for the playoffs.
The New York Knicks have signed 13-year NBA veteran forward P.J. Tucker to a 10-day contract, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Charania noted that Tucker had discussions with multiple teams over the past week before choosing to join the Knicks.
SNY's Ian Begley reported that the Knicks see Tucker as a key addition to their locker room. While the team has young veterans, none bring the level of experience that Tucker does.
Per the same report, he is expected to be well-received and valued for his championship pedigree. The Knicks also wanted a player with an enforcer mentality, which made Tucker an ideal target.
According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, New York was $540K below the second apron before signing Tucker, and his 10-day contract will cost $119,972.
The 39-year-old began the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers but was traded multiple times, eventually landing with the Toronto Raptors, who waived him on Feb. 28.
Tucker has yet to play this season, with his last appearance coming on May 4, 2024, during the first round of the playoffs for the LA Clippers against the Dallas Mavericks.
In 31 games with the Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers during the 2023-24 season, he averaged 1.7 points and 2.7 rebounds in 15.7 minutes per game.
Tucker won an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021.
The Knicks currently hold the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference with a 40-23 record.
Like what we are doing? You can express your gratitude here.
Miami Heat
New York Knicks
Golden State Warriors
Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Clippers
Sacramento Kings
Portland Trail Blazers