The Los Angeles Clippers and veteran forward P.J. Tucker have mutually agreed that Tucker won’t be with the team temporarily as they explore other opportunities for him.
Los Angeles Clippers forward P.J. Tucker opted in for his $11.54 million player option for the 2024-25 season
“P.J. is a professional who has had a successful career and has more he wants to achieve,” the Clippers stated on Sunday. “We will keep working with P.J. and his representative to find the best path forward for him.”
The Clippers also mentioned that they are actively seeking a resolution for Tucker, likely through a trade. Earlier this year, Tucker exercised his $11.54 million player option for the upcoming season.
The Clippers and forward P.J. 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. pic.twitter.com/IgFrYi5M1I
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 6, 2024
According to ESPN, this is the second time Tucker has been separated from the team since arriving from the Philadelphia 76ers in a trade involving James Harden last season.
Tucker and guard Bones Hyland were sidelined by the Clippers on Feb. 14 last season, rejoining the team on Feb. 22 after the All-Star break.
NBA fined Tucker $75,000 last season for public trade comments
Both Tucker and Hyland were discontent with their roles, with Tucker publicly expressing his desire to be traded due to lack of playing time.
Before last season’s trade deadline, Tucker was fined $75,000 by the NBA for his comments about wanting to be traded. He reiterated his desire to leave on multiple occasions.
Tucker’s final season under $33 million contract
Tucker, 39, is entering the final season of a three-year, $33 million deal signed with the 76ers in 2022. Despite missing media day, he participated in the Clippers’ training camp in Hawaii.
In 31 games last season, Tucker averaged 1.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 15.7 minutes per game, shooting 36% from the field and 37.1% from three-point range.
A trade appears to be the likely outcome for both parties, with Tucker expected to provide depth as a rotational piece for another team.
