NBA Trade rumors: Atlanta Hawks among teams that have shown interest in P.J. Tucker

So far most of the trade rumors surrounding the Atlanta Hawks have been instances where they would be stripping down their current roster. With the trade deadline just over a month away we get our first report of them looking to make an addition that would strengthen the wing position.

The Hawks are reportedly one of several teams including the Clippers and the Cavaliers that have shown interest in Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker according to a report by John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7.

Gambadoro goes on to describe why playoff bound teams would want a player like Tucker in the first place.

Tucker, who is 31 years old, has never been to the playoffs and if he is traded you can expect he would want to go to a team looking to sign him to a multi-year deal. While some teams may look at Tucker as more than a rental player, there are teams that would only want him for the playoff run. Either way, Tucker’s value to a contending team is high. He is a premier defender who can defend multiple positions and also shoot the corner three-pointer. He is a high-energy player and good locker room presence, well-liked and respected by teammates. He makes players around him better.

However, the Suns also value Tucker and may be interested in re-signing him according to Gambadoro. That could drive the price up.

Teams have discussions with other teams all the time so it is hard to gauge the validity of a lot of rumors. Tucker is a player that looks like he would be a good fit for Atlanta given his skills and hard working demeanor. It remains to be seen if the Suns are really interested in moving at all.

The biggest thing to take from this is that this is our first indication that the Hawks are exploring ways to improve the team as well. So far most of the rumors centering around the team came from a few weeks ago when it looked like they were ready to dismantle their roster.