NBA: P.J. Tucker steps away from Clippers in mutual agreement

P.J. Tucker won't be with the Los Angeles Clippers as the team works to find a new "situation" for the veteran forward.

"We've had ongoing conversations with P.J. throughout the offseason and have both decided that he won't be with the team for the time being," the Clippers said in a statement Sunday. "P.J. is a pro who has achieved a lot in his career and there's more he wants to accomplish. We will continue working with P.J. and his representative to find the best situation for him moving forward."

Tucker, 39, was part of the same trade that sent James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Clippers last November. He played in just 28 games for the Clippers, making seven starts, and averaged 1.6 points and 2.5 rebounds for his new team.

Tucker briefly spent time away from the team in February while frustrated with his limited role and critical of the Clippers in the press.

He went on to pick up his player option for the 2024-25 season, worth $11.5 million, capping a three-year, $33 million contract he had signed with Philadelphia.

In parts of 13 NBA seasons with the Toronto Raptors (2006-07, 2017), Phoenix Suns (2012-17), Houston Rockets (2017-21), Milwaukee Bucks (2021), Miami Heat (2021-22), Sixers and Clippers, Tucker has averaged 6.6 points and 5.4 rebounds and has shot 36.6 percent from 3-point range across 883 games (666 starts).

The Clippers' season begins Oct. 23 against the Suns. — Field Level Media/Reuters