NBA Rumors: P.J. Tucker could return to Phoenix Suns, but wants a raise

Mar 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 128-122. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 128-122. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 128-122. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 6, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker celebrates in the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Thunder 128-122. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

P.J. Tucker has been a very productive player for the Phoenix Suns this season.

Not only is he averaging 9.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game, but he has impressed Suns’ coaches with his defense.

Tucker was out of the NBA since 2007 before joining the Suns in 2012, so he is very thankful for his opportunity.

“The love I have for this organization will always be,” Tucker told Paul Coro of AZCentral.com. “They gave me a chance to prove myself and actually to prove that I’m a player in this league. It’s almost emotional for me to think about everything I’ve been through and for them to give me an opportunity to do it. Not just to be on the team, but in two seasons, I’ve started a whole year and a half for the team on a minimum contract. That doesn’t happen.

“When I sit back and think about it, which I never do, it’s too much. So I’ll always be indebted.”

Tucker knows if he is going to get paid and secure his future, this is the time.

“I’m nervous but excited at the same time. This is the most important time in my career. I kind of took a pay cut to come so this is my one chance.”