On Feb. 6, the Los Angeles Lakers added a talented big man by trading for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams.
However, two days later, the deal was rescinded due to Williams’ failed physical, forcing Los Angeles to explore the buyout market for a frontcourt asset.
While it wouldn’t be a game-changing move, the Lakers could acquire an NBA champion forward with valuable experience.
“The beloved sneakerhead journeyman forward used to be a multifaceted 3-and-D combo forward for several playoff squads, eventually winning his lone NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021,” Sports Illustrated’s Alex Kirschenbaum wrote Saturday.
“At 39, he’s a bit past his prime, and had been away from the L.A. (Los Angeles) Clippers all season awaiting a trade. He was eventually offloaded to Boucher’s (Toronto) Raptors, but as an aging veteran he seems unlikely to earn minutes there.”
Tucker’s production and value have decreased over the years, but the Texas product was once a respectable long-range shooter who could sacrifice his body defensively and frustrate opponents.
His ability to adequately play his role on both ends resulted in an NBA title victory and multiple deep postseason runs.
Unfortunately, Tucker, who hasn’t appeared in an NBA contest this year, is no longer a serviceable contributor in the big leagues, compelling the Clippers to trade him to the Utah Jazz on Feb. 1.
The Jazz shipped the accomplished forward to the Raptors five days later, possibly making him a buyout candidate this season.
Tucker averaged 1.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per contest with the Clippers last season, shooting 36.0% from the field and 36.7% from three.
While Tucker likely wouldn’t make positive contributions on either end of the floor with the Lakers, his proven playoff success and overall track record could motivate the organization to squeeze out the little juice he has left in the tank.
Don’t rule out the possibility of Los Angeles landing Tucker soon.
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