Knicks Trade Rumors: Best Available Defensive Players

P.J. Tucker, Phoenix Suns

Position: Small Forward
Age: 31 (5/5/1985)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .400/.314/.769
2016-17 Season Averages: 27.3 MPG, 6.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.6 ORPG, 1.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 3PM

P.J. Tucker is the player on this list whom the New York Knicks have been directly linked to. The Phoenix Suns small forward has the combination of versatility, intensity, and physicality that every coach looks for in a defensive player.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, there has been talk within the organization about potentially making a move for Tucker at or before the deadline.

"It doesn’t seem as if any move is imminent, but some members of the Knicks’ front office have labeled Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker as a potential trade target, league sources told ESPN.com."

Tucker makes sense on a number of different fronts.

Tucker played for Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek between 2013-14 and 2015-16. He broke out as one of the more respected perimeter defenders in the NBA under Hornacek and has remained vocally supportive of the former Suns coach.

The fact that Hornacek and Tucker have a strong camaraderie and a healthy working relationship implies that he could provide the instant fix New York needs.

Tucker is a 245-pound powerhouse who can defend small forwards, stretch 4s, and even the occasional post player. He may be shorter than the average player at his position, but he makes up for it with his physicality and the low center of gravity he maintains.

Consistent in both creating turnovers and providing a positive impact to his team, Tucker would be an ideal defensive backup to Carmelo Anthony.

Must Read: Five reasons to pursue P.J. Tucker

The question is: if Phil Jackson determines a trade is necessary, which of these players should the Knicks make a run at?