Knicks Announce 10-Day Contract With PJ Tucker

Veteran forward P.J. Tucker has officially signed a 10-day contract with the Knicks, the team announced in a press release. The deal was first reported on March 8 by ESPN’s Shams Charania, who wrote that Tucker had been in talks with multiple NBA teams before choosing the Knicks.

The 39-year-old forward, known for his defensive prowess and 3-point shooting, joins the Knicks as the team competes for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. Tucker also brings significant postseason experience, including an NBA championship with the Bucks in 2021, which could prove valuable if he is retained beyond the 10-day deal.

New York has maintained an open roster spot throughout the season, meaning no additional moves are needed to accommodate Tucker. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Tucker’s contract will cost the team $119,972, bringing the Knicks’ total payroll to approximately $540K below the second luxury tax apron.

While Tucker is not expected to sign immediately, he is anticipated to do so during the Knicks’ current road trip, which resumes Monday in Sacramento. If signed by Monday, Tucker will be eligible to play in five games before his contract expires on March 19.

Sources close to the team told SNY’s Ian Begley that the Knicks view Tucker as a key addition to their locker room, citing his veteran leadership and “enforcer mentality.” New York had been seeking a player of his caliber to strengthen its roster for a playoff push.

Tucker, who has not played this season, was originally with the Clippers after exercising his $11.54 million player option in the offseason. Following a mutual agreement in October for him to stay away from the team while his agent worked on a trade, he was eventually sent to the Jazz in February. Five days later, he was dealt again to the Raptors as part of a five-team trade involving Jimmy Butler. After remaining inactive with the Raptors, Tucker was waived on February 28.

The Knicks will be Tucker’s eighth NBA team. Since making his debut with Toronto in 2006, he has played in 883 games, averaging 6.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, with shooting splits of .425/.366/.750.