featured-image

2013-14 Player Preview: P.J. Tucker

P.J. Tucker

At a glance: 6-6, 224 pounds, 28 years old

2012-13 stats: 24.2 minutes, 6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds per game

How he got here: Signed as a free agent on Aug. 1, 2012

What he brings to the table: Hard-nosed, in-your-face defense. Tucker boasts the rare combination of speed and strength that allows him to both keep up with and stand up to his defensive assignment. Hustle plays are commonplace, producing momentum-swinging sequences that don't show up in the box score. He also showed an improved post-up game in Summer League this offseason.

Goal: Improve outside shooting (31.4 percent from deep last season)

Best game as a pro: April 10, 2013 at Dallas. Tucker brought the entire skill set to the floor against the Mavericks, coming up with a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. He provided a big boost from long distance, going 3-for-4 from beyond the arc while adding three assists and two steals in the Suns' 102-91 win.

RELATED STORIES

SUNS PLAYER PREVIEWS

Sept. 16: Ish Smith

Sept. 17: Malcolm Lee

Sept. 18: Miles Plumlee

Sept. 20: Gerald Green

Sept. 22: Shannon Brown

Sept. 24: P.J. Tucker

Sept. 25: Archie Goodwin

Sept. 26: Alex Len

Sept. 28: Marcin Gortat

Sept. 29: Eric Bledsoe

Sept. 30: Goran Dragic