Once the Houston Rockets finally pulled the trigger on the blockbuster deal that sent James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets, veteran forward P.J. Tucker immediately saw his name being floated in trade rumors. According to sources, the 35-year-old is well aware of the interest opposing teams currently have on him, and that Tucker is now weighing his options.
This report comes via Kelly Iko and Sam Amick of The Athletic:
Sources say Tucker is prepared to play for Houston for the season even without his future tied down, but he is not opposed to a trade should one materialize. It’s understood that an extension offer is on the table at this point, but Tucker has not accepted it. Teams have already made a number of phone calls to Houston about potentially acquiring Tucker.
The most important thing to note here is that Tucker is currently on an expiring deal. He is in the final year of his contract and if he does not sign an extension with Houston, the 6-foot-5 forward will be an unrestricted free agent in the summer.
Needless to say, the Rockets will want to get some value from Tucker as opposed to letting him walk away for nothing in the summer — especially since the front office does not appear to be willing to pay Tucker the money he is asking for.
In 11 games played this season, Tucker is currently putting up averages of 5.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.2 steals, while also connecting on 1.4 triples per contest on an efficient 45.5-percent clip.