Bucks land PJ Tucker from Rockets for playoff push

MILWAUKEE (AP) — P.J. Tucker says a move to the championship-contending Milwaukee Bucks offers the 35year-old veteran a breath of fresh air and a chance to turn around a frustrating season.

Tucker practiced with his new team Friday after the Bucks officially announced they had acquired the 6-foot-5 forward along with guard Rodions Kurucs from the Houston Rockets The Bucks sent guard D.J. Augustin plus forward D.J. Wilson to Houston.

As part of the trade, the Bucks gave up their 2021 and 2023 firstround picks and got back their own 2022 firstround pick and the Rockets’2021 second-round sel ect i o n .

“Man, I was nipping at the bit today to get in practice, to get in there just to hit bodies and talk and be with the guys,” Tucker said. “It felt great. It feels good just to have my battery recharged.”

Tucker gives the Bucks a solid defender and quality 3-point shooter - especially from the corners – as they bid for their first NBA title since 1971. Bucks general manager Jon Horst said in a statement that Tucker “checks all the boxes” with his versatility and all-around game.

“His defense is at an elite level,” Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said.

Budenholzer cited “his ability to guard multiple positions, his ability to guard the best players in the league, the physicality he brings to that level of the court, the playoff experience he brings and the ability to space the court, make 3’s, play the right way, play smart with high basketball IQ.”

Tucker hasn’t played in a game since March 3 but is expected to be available Saturday when the Bucks host the San Antonio Spurs.

The Rockets said last week they were attempting to trade Tucker, who is in the final season of a $31.8 million, fouryear contract.

Tucker had started each of the 32 games in which he appeared and was averaging 4.4 points as the Rockets have struggled after dealing Russell Westbrook and James Harden. Tucker was shooting 31.4% from 3-point range but had been a more reliable 3-point shooter in previous seasons.

“It’s been a frustrating year from all standpoints,” Tucker said.

---AP