Phoenix Suns trade P.J. Tucker to Toronto Raptors
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Phoenix Suns traded forward P.J. Tucker to the Toronto Raptors before the end of the NBA Trade Deadline.
The Toronto Raptors are going all in on trying to win the Eastern Conference. With the NBA Trade Deadline taking place on Thursday, the team was able to make a move before the deadline passed. They were able to acquire a defensive ace from the Phoenix Suns and land P.J. Tucker.
After acquiring Serge Ibaka last week, the Raptors further added to their depth by picking up Tucker. The defensive-minded forward has been known for his relentless defense and effort. He matched up nightly on the opponent’s best weapon. The Raptors will also get Tucker’s bird rights according to Bobby Marks.
Sources: Toronto is sending Jared Sullinger and two future second-round picks to Phoenix for PJ Tucker.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 23, 2017
Toronto will inherit the bird rights of P.J. Tucker. The expiring contract for Tucker is $5.3m.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) February 23, 2017
As for the Suns, this move ensures that they will be high in the lottery for a loaded 2017 NBA Draft. By moving Tucker, they lose their best defender and it shows a sign of change for the franchise as they aim to get younger.
Next: NBA Trade Deadline Tracker
The two second-round picks are going to be low picks but they can always be used in trade packages down the line. The Suns came into the deadline looking for a direction and this trade signals finally that they’re in on the youth movement.
With exciting young players already on the roster, the Suns now will be able to give their young players even more minutes than before. They still have veterans such as Tyson Chandler and Eric Bledsoe on the roster, but they have moved a key piece.