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Knicks Trade Rumors: Five Reasons To Pursue P.J. Tucker

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 17, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Domantas Sabonis (3) guards Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker (17) during the second half at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. The Thunder defeat the Suns 114-101. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 17, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Domantas Sabonis (3) guards Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker (17) during the second half at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. The Thunder defeat the Suns 114-101. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Suns 118-114. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Suns 118-114. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Toughness

As previously acknowledged, the New York Knicks built past contenders teams by valuing defense and selflessness. The additional trait that made the Knicks teams of yesteryear so special is something that can’t be taught: toughness.

Whether or not you appreciate the other aspects of his game, P.J. Tucker has New York style toughness in spades.

Tucker is a 6’6″ and 245-pound powerhouse who isn’t afraid to throw his weight around on either end of the floor. He embraces physicality, is willing to commit the hard foul, and knows how to get under an opponent’s skin.

A fair reflection of Tucker’s toughness is the fact that, at 6’6″, he boasts career averages of 7.3 rebounds and 2.2 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes.

One of the primary results of Tucker’s toughness is a word that few truly encompass: versatility. Tucker has spent time at both small forward and power forward, utilizing his strength and 7’0″ wingspan to defend both positions at a high level.

The Knicks don’t need to be a bully-ball team in 2016-17, but having a player who can thrive in that capacity would be wise for any team in any era.

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