PJ Tucker, who turns 40-years-old on May 5th, will soon be making his season debut for an NBA contender once he clears waivers. After being traded from the Los Angeles Clippers at the deadline, Tucker officially agreed on a buyout with the Toronto Raptors to join the open market.

After attempting to trade Tucker before the 2024-25 season began, Los Angeles told the veteran wing to stay away from the team until a deal was found. Tucker had complained about his non-role with Los Angeles over the past 18 months, and his large salary made an appealing deal impossible to find.

Tucker was originally traded from the Clippers alongside Mo Bamba to the Utah Jazz for Drew Eubanks and Patty Mills before being quickly rerouted in other deals before the deadline ultimately passed.

Now as a soon-to-be unrestricted free agent, Tucker will have the chance to sign with a contending team before their final postseason push. However, the question for Tucker will be if any team will show serious interest.

At his age, and a noticeable dip in two-way production over the past few years, it’s hard to envision Tucker immediately finding a role with playing time unless he’s embraced a full-time bench spot.

Teams who could check in on Tucker would be ones in need of a veteran presence, and an attitude to bring into the locker room when necessary. Tucker has been known over the years for his toughness, and he’s not afraid to mix it up with opponents to bring some energy to his teammates.

After wanting to find an opportunity away from the Clippers for over a year, it’s finally happened for Tucker. But it might be a long wait yet again for the veteran, unless he already has a destination in mind with potential mutual interest.