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Despite dealing with multiple injuries and lineup changes, the Miami Heat sit at the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. With their rookie forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. playing ahead of schedule, the Heat have been able to stay in the middle of the competitive Eastern Conference. His arrival has allowed the Heat to wind stand the injuries to their top three players this season. Still, Miami could seek additional moves with the trade deadline being almost two months away. There are reports that Miami could be interested in bringing on of their former players back in PJ Tucker.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported that both the Bucks and Heat expressed “a healthy level of admiration”for Tucker, who has been seeking more playing time or a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers.
The veteran forward has not seen playing time since November 27th and remains as a reserve while the Clippers explore trade options ahead of February’s trade deadline. Tucker has averaged 1.2 points and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 28.6 percent in 12 games with the Clippers. Before the trade, he was a consistent starter for the Philadelphia 76ers. He previously played for both the Heat and Bucks’
Trade Complications
Stein adds a potential deal for Tucker doesn’t seem possible this season. Why? Because Tucker’s contract complicates things in regard to a trade. He’s making $11 million this season and is guaranteed $11.5 million next season. That’s a lot of money for any team to take on and salary to send out for an aging player. Especially in a one-for-one trade. If he’s traded this season, it’s more possible he’s in a larger deal as a salary filler. Miami is also deep in the forward positions and may lack the playing time Tucker desires.
