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Debate

Will PJ Tucker's return to the Bucks reignite their championship hopes, or is it just nostalgia?

It was only eight months ago that PJ Tucker publicly acknowledged he was “actively trying to get traded” from the Clippers. Joining the team last year as part of the blockbuster James Harden trade, the veteran forward was not happy with his diminished role on the court. But his wish was never granted, and he is still part of that roster. However, things took a turn earlier this week when the Clippers announced that the hooper will not be with the team for the time being while they figure out the best situation for him.

Sure enough, trade rumors began to escalate, and one of PJ’s old teams, where he has a glorious history, emerged as the most likely suitor. As per Bovada, an online gambling site, the Milwaukee Bucks are currently the favorites to win Tucker’s sweepstakes with -120 odds. Well, that might be the perfect situation for the veteran forward, as he briefly played for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. three years ago and even won his maiden championship with the team.

The hooper played a key role in that title run by averaging 4.8 points and over 4 rebounds in 2021 playoffs. Meanwhile, the Suns are second in line as potential suitors stacking them at +325. Obviously, PJ spent five years of his career in Phoenix, which was also his longest stint on any team so far. So it’s safe to say that he is familiar with the Philly culture. Moreover, there are several other teams tied at +700, which could be possible destinations for the forward, including the Heat, Kings, Nuggets, Celtics, and Mavs.

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However, heading to a completely new environment should not be a problem for PJ Tucker, as he has played on seven different teams in his career. And despite being 39 years old, the hooper could still contribute on a title-contending team.

PJ Tucker’s turbulent Clippers journey and how he can help teams win

Well, it does seem like Tucker’s time with the Clippers is about to come to an end. And if it is so, it was a pretty turbulent journey despite being a short one. When he revealed his desire to get traded, the league fined him $75,000 for his comments in February. Amid the drama, the hooper said, “I don’t know what’s going to happen but I have my fingers crossed and I’m hoping to go somewhere else, whether I get bought out and choose where I go or where I can play.”

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USA Today via Reuters

Sure enough, the forward did not see a lot of time on the court as he played only 28 games for the LA side and averaged less than two points. Despite that, he opted into his $11.5 million player option earlier this summer. Part of the reason could be the lack of lucrative offers at this age. But now that he is in trade rumors once again, PJ could provide that veteran presence on any title-contending team.

What’s your perspective on:

Will PJ Tucker's return to the Bucks reignite their championship hopes, or is it just nostalgia?

Have an interesting take?

With his 18 years of experience and leadership, he’ll naturally be the guiding voice in a locker room and he can also be a decent off-the-bench player who can shoot deep-rangers when needed, with his career 36.6% efficiency from beyond the arc. Known for signing ring-chasing veterans, could the Lakers emerge as a last-minute destination for PJ Tucker to land next?

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Before leaving, watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant, WNBA ROTY picks, and more.

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