3 players the Rockets can get in a P.J. Tucker trade

With the NBA trade deadline quickly approaching on March 25th, the Houston Rockets have been shopping several of their assets. The Rockets are in rebuild mode, reducing the need for veteran players, and have several players on expiring contracts.

One of those players is known 3-and-D forward P.J. Tucker, who joined the team in 2017 and has been one of the most durable, unheralded players in the league. Tucker possesses versatility to play either forward spot and has shown the ability to be a small-ball center, making him even more valuable.

The Rockets offered Tucker a contract extension, which he’s decided against signing, making a trade the best outcome for both Tucker and the Rockets. The timing is perfect for both parties, as the trade market figures to be quite calm, since James Harden has already been dealt, Giannis Antetokounmpo signed an extension prior to the start of the season, Jrue Holiday has already been moved, and Bradley Beal has opted to remain with the Washington Wizards (for now).

3 players the Houston Rockets can land in a P.J. Tucker trade

Tucker’s outgoing salary of $7.96 million also makes a trade even easier for a contending team, as they wouldn’t have to shed much salary for a player with a reputation of being an elite defender, who also holds value as a corner 3-point shooter on offense. It’s been reported that the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Lakers are interested in Tucker, which is quite the market.

The Rockets have reportedly prioritized players over draft picks for Tucker, which makes sense, considering how they’ve replenished their draft capital since the arrival of general manager Rafael Stone. With Tucker being one of hottest names on the trade market, let’s take a look at several players the Rockets could get back in return for the defensive ace.

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