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Phoenix Suns 2013-14 Player Grades: P.J. Tucker

By Gerald Bourguet

Apr 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the closing seconds of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 122-115. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the closing seconds of the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 122-115. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Grade: B-

P.J. Tucker
Jan 11, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Phoenix Suns small forward P.J. Tucker (17) receives congratulations from teammates after making a three point shot to tie the game in the fourth quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Detroit won 110-108. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

At age 29 Tucker, probably already is what he is. As a typical “3-and-D” guy, Tucker brings the intensity on the defensive end and became a corner three-point specialist this year to help bolster an already formidable offensive attack. Tucker can’t really create his own shot and corner threes almost always result from good ball movement and penetration by the Suns’ dynamic backcourt, but there’s something to be said for a guy who put in the hard work to develop his game in a way that would help his team.

Tucker’s gutsy performances give this Suns team attitude and life and he adds much-needed perimeter defense. His competitive fire may get the best of him sometimes when he commits bad fouls or gets whistled for a technical, but Tucker is the kind of warrior you want to go to battle with. And since he just submitted a career year as a valuable role player for this growing Phoenix team, the Suns would do well to re-sign him to a fair contract this summer.

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