P.J. Tucker has reached an agreement to join the New York Knicks on a 10-day contract. The veteran forward, known for his robust playoff experience and sharpshooting abilities from the corner, is set to bring his talents to Madison Square Garden. At 39, Tucker continues to be a formidable presence on the court, with 104 postseason games under his belt and a reputation as a proven playoff performer.
Tucker has made an indelible mark in the NBA, having drained 704 corner 3-pointers over the past 12 seasons, more than any other player during that period. His most recent appearance was with the LA Clippers in May 2024 during their first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks. Furthermore, Tucker is a key figure in NBA history as a 2021 champion with the Milwaukee Bucks. His defensive prowess and versatility make him an invaluable asset for the Knicks, providing frontcourt depth and acting as an enforcer.
The Knicks' head coach, Tom Thibodeau, is expected to deploy Tucker across all frontcourt positions, where he will support Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and Precious Achiuwa at center. Tucker's extensive experience and skill set make him an ideal candidate to bolster the team's defensive strategies and strengthen their playoff aspirations.
Currently in his 14th NBA season, Tucker has had stints with the LA Clippers, Utah Jazz, and Toronto Raptors. After being waived by the Raptors in late February, he engaged in discussions with several teams before ultimately deciding to join the Knicks. His career averages of 6.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game, along with a solid 36.6% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, underscore his all-around capabilities.
Despite his age, Tucker's impact on both ends of the floor remains significant. His arrival in New York is timely, as it provides much-needed depth and experience during a critical phase of the Knicks' season. Moreover, his playoff pedigree could prove crucial as the team looks to make a deep postseason run.
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