Miami Heat: Pass or pursue on 5 rumored NBA trade deadline targets
By Dalton Sell
Should the Miami Heat pass on or pursue rumored trade target P.J. Tucker?
Due to their need for help in the frontcourt, the Miami Heat have been linked to several intriguing power forwards ahead of the trade deadline.
One of the more prominent names that continue to surface in the discussion is P.J. Tucker of the Houston Rockets. Miami’s interest in the veteran swingman has been swirling for weeks, and The Athletic’s Shams Charania ($$) reported in his latest rumor roundup Monday morning that they remain “engaged” in trade talks for the 35-year-old.
Although he is not a superstar, Tucker is one of the bigger names floating around on the trade market because of his defensive stature. The forward has built up a reputation as one of the more burdensome defenders in the association for opponents, and his presence could be impactful for contending teams looking to go all-in.
In Miami’s case, having Tucker around would be a fantastic addition, particularly for the postseason as they try making it back in the NBA Finals. Being able to throw the forward at household names like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, or Pascal Siakam defensively would be a luxury for the Heat.
On the books for $7.96 million this season, Tucker is among the more financially flexible targets for the Heat, and he would be a solid addition. Bringing in a robust defender who happens to play power forward would check off two boxes for the Heat, and they should look to make it happen to bolster their frontcourt.