As we approach the trade deadline for this season, many teams around the NBA are still looking to bolster their respective rosters.
It’s a well-known fact that the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers are among the teams that are seeking a talented reserve player. Some analysts think the defending champs need a backup point guard, while other are calling for more paint presence.
John Gambadoro reports in his recent article with ArizonaSports.com that the Cavs, at some point, “expressed interest” in Phoenix Suns swingman, P.J. Tucker.
“According to my NBA sources, the Clippers, Bulls, Cavaliers, Timberwolves and Hawks all have interest in acquiring the lock-down physical defender.
“The problem with trading for Tucker is that the Suns place a high value on him and are not going to just give him away. Phoenix is also interested in re-signing Tucker if possible, and not just because of his work with Devin Booker in practice, but because they don’t have another player like him on their roster with his defensive versatility and rebounding ability.”
Tucker, who is 31 years old and in the final year of his $5.3 million contract, will likely be seeking a multi-year deal. The Cavs may not be able — or willing — to offer the defensive specialist the salary he’ll demand.
The only problem the Cavs would have in signing Tucker, who is averaging 6.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, would be figuring out his fit on a team that already has several established role players. Furthermore, the Suns may not even be interested in what the Cavs could potentially offer for Tucker’s services.
So, with all of that being said, the Cavs did indeed “express interest” in Tucker, but whether a deal will be struck or not can only be speculated on at this point.
