P.J. Tucker will decline his $7.4 million player option with the Miami Heat and enter unrestricted free company, in accordance to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Per Tim Reynolds, Tucker’s determination was anticipated, nevertheless it’s “like Heat will fight to keep him.” Tucker additionally let or not it’s identified throughout the locker room that he would really like to return to Miami.
P.J. Tucker deciding to opt out was 100% anticipated. This doesn’t imply he’s leaving Miami, supply reiterated to AP. It’s seemingly Heat will battle to keep him, and Tucker made clear to teammates when season ended that he would really like to be again.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) June 20, 2022
Tucker is coming off a stable season, which noticed the 37-year-old shoot 41.5 p.c from behind the arc and common 5.5 rebounds per recreation. One of the sport’s most coveted role players, Tucker was a crucial cog within the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2021 NBA title run and most lately helped Miami attain the Eastern Conference Finals.
A rugged defender who contributes on each ends of the court, Tucker performed abroad for 5 years after a 17-game rookie season with Toronto in 2006. He returned to the NBA in 2012 and grew to become a valued presence on a number of playoff groups. Tucker averaged 7.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per recreation final season with the Heat.
If Tucker picked up his option with Miami, he would have acquired a $350,000 pay improve for subsequent season. Instead, the veteran getting into his 14th NBA season will take a look at the free-agent market and seemingly look to be part of one other contender.
The put up REPORT: P.J. Tucker to Opt-Out of Player Option and Hit Free Agency appeared first on SLAM.
REPORT: P.J. Tucker to Opt-Out of Player Option and Hit Free Agency