NBA Free Agency: 5 teams that should pursue PJ Tucker this offseason

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MIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 23: P.J. Tucker #17 of the Miami Heat is defended by LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers at FTX Arena on January 23, 2022 in Miami, Florida, NBA Free Agency: 5 teams that should pursue PJ Tucker this offseason. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

NBA Free Agency: 5 teams for PJ Tucker this offseason: Los Angeles Lakers

Among the significant issues for the Los Angeles Lakers this past season was their lackluster play on the defensive side of the basketball. A sizeable chunk of that could be attributed to the absence of Anthony Davis for most of the year, but it is clear that the franchise should emphasize acquiring more defensive-minded personnel this offseason regardless.

Adding PJ Tucker would be a perfect move in that regard, as the forward could immediately help this team get better on that end of the court while also shoring up their three-point shooting.

The biggest roadblock would be offering Tucker a significant amount of money in free agency, given LA’s finite financial flexibility. Yet, that should not stop them from at least inquiring about the 37-year-old, and perhaps Russell Westbrook, one of Tucker’s former teammates during their days with the Houston Rockets, could recruit him to the City of Angels.

NBA Free Agency: 5 teams for PJ Tucker this offseason: Philadelphia 76ers

Right now, all signs are pointing to the Philadelphia 76ers being the favorites to get PJ Tucker this offseason. According to NBA insider Marc Stein (subscription required), teams are convinced that Tucker will soon sign a lucrative, three-year deal worth $30 million with the 76ers in free agency.

That offering could certainly see the 76ers outbid opposing teams looking to land Tucker, as that would be a hefty price to pay. However, it is a viable one by Philadelphia as it is an all-in move to help them in their quest to take home a title next season.

Tucker is undoubtedly a player that can help the 76ers on impact, and adding him would not only see the 37-year-old reunite with former Houston Rockets teammate James Harden, but also his former general manager in Daryl Morey, who is currently pulling the strings for Philly as their president of basketball operations. Tucker to Philadelphia makes sense for all parties involved, and it appears to be the likeliest scenario at this point in time.

Next. 5 free agents with ties to James Harden for 76ers to pursue. dark

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