Clippers and P.J. Tucker Seek Fresh Prospects

The LA Clippers and P.J. Tucker have jointly decided to explore new opportunities for the seasoned player. In an announcement made on October 6, 2024, the Clippers declared that Tucker wouldn’t be participating in team activities temporarily as they seek a more suitable situation for him.

Statement by the LA Clippers

“P.J. is a dedicated professional who has achieved significant milestones in his career yet has ambitions for more,” the Clippers expressed in a Sunday statement. “We are committed to cooperating with P.J. and his agent to identify the most beneficial opportunity for his future.”

This marks the second instance of Tucker temporarily separating from the team since joining the LA Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers as part of the James Harden trade early in the previous season.

Previous Instance and Consequences

On February 14, during the last season, the Clippers directed Tucker and point guard Bones Hyland to take a break from the team activities. The purpose was to allow them to clear their heads before they returned to the team for the first game post the All-Star break in Oklahoma City on February 22. Both players had expressed discontent with their roles within the team.

During the last season, Tucker was disappointed with his limited playing time and faced a $75,000 fine by the NBA following his public remarks about wanting a trade in February.

Tucker’s Expressions

In early February, Tucker openly admitted to actively seeking a trade. He reiterated his desire to Andscape in the week leading up to the February 8 trade deadline. “I aspire to be in a place where my skills are needed, appreciated, and I can fully utilize them,” Tucker shared with Andscape. “I’m uncertain about the future, but I’m hopeful of a change, be it through a buyout, choosing my next destination, or getting to play more.”

At 39, Tucker has chosen his $11.5 million player option for the current season, the last year of his three-year, $33 million contract signed with the 76ers in 2022.