Milwaukee Bucks: Better trade target, Nemanja Bjelica or P.J. Tucker?
By Dalton Sell
The case for P.J. Tucker being the better trade target for the Milwaukee Bucks
With the Bucks showing more defensive struggles this year than they have in the previous two seasons, they could certainly use a player of Tucker’s caliber.
Tucker has consistently been trademarked as one of the grittiest and most resilient defenders in the association throughout his NBA tenure. This was evident last season during Houston’s small ball experiment, where the 6’5″ forward found himself playing the center position for the latter half of the season.
Utilizing his strength and size, Tucker is a versatile defender that can guard multiple positions at a capable level. That defensive prowess is why a handful of contending teams are looking to get their hands on him, knowing that he could potentially help turn things up a notch on that side of the ball.
Tucker would give the Bucks another defender to throw at opposing players, but he could also provide a boost offensively. The 35-year-old is a relatively serviceable shooter from behind the arc by tallying 35.9 percent for his career. Tucker has most notably been one of the best shooters from the perimeter when camped out in either corner, which could make him a great fit in this Milwaukee offense.
Purely based on reputation, Tucker would be a fantastic trade target for the Bucks. However, his subpar play this season could have the front office justifiably weary to make a move, and the fact that he will be in high demand is another knock against the asset-stripped Bucks.
In 32 games this season, the forward is averaging just 4.4 points while shooting 36.6 percent from the floor and a vile 31.4 percent from deep. Those are among the worst numbers of his career, and that could have the team hesitant to make a significant offer for him.