Milwaukee Bucks: 4 players who could earn a big payday in the playoffs

P.J. Tucker could earn a payday in the playoffs with the Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks surprised many when they abruptly traded for veteran forward P.J. Tucker from the Houston Rockets back in March, but the move made all the sense in the world.

Tucker was arguably the most highly coveted piece on the trade market at the time for contenders because of his defensive prowess. When the Bucks brought him in, it was clear that they intended to throw him at Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Ben Simmons, and other stars that could potentially block their path to the NBA Finals this season.

While he will play a key role in the team’s playoff run this year because of that defensive stature, his future with the franchise is uncertain. Tucker is set to hit free agency once the season ends, and it is no secret that the recently turned 36-year-old is seeking a payday. As initially reported by The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, Shams Charania, and Sam Amick (subscription required), Tucker was previously irate with the Rockets because of a lack of momentum towards a contract extension that eventually led to him requesting a trade.

If Tucker can live up to the billing and play some robust defense in the postseason against a group of the best players in the world, he could earn that payday he desired. Still, only time will tell what happens there, but there will be no shortage of teams looking to utilize Tucker’s services if he hits the market.