An early look at Orlando Magic 2017 Free Agency

P.J. Tucker

P.J. Tucker was a gamechanger for the Toronto Raptors despite a disappointing end to the team’s playoff run.

His hustle, size, defense and shooting gave the Raptors an added dimension they thought could threaten LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers. They fell short, but Tucker still had a great season.

Tucker fits the bill of the ideal Aaron Gordon complement. He can guard all types of opposing 4s while spacing the floor on offense, allowing Gordon to lock down opposing wings and play close to and above the rim on offense.

He proved during his time with the Phoenix Suns he does not need to be in the playoffs or close to a championship to play hard every single night. That kind of attitude and would go a long way in the young Magic locker room. Pardon the cliché, but his veteran leadership would also be more than welcome.

A lot of what he does on the court does not show up in a box score. Battling for loose balls, playing physical defense, pumping up his teammates and getting into opponents’ heads are part of his identity. He is the type of player who can go 0 for 6 from three but still swing a game in his team’s favor.

Toronto would probably like to keep him, but their moment of reckoning has come this offseason. They seem inclined to resign Serge Ibaka, but Kyle Lowry will also be looking for a major payday. They could end up with limited cap flexibility, unable or disinclined to match an offer for Tucker and forced to allow him to fall into another suitor’s lap.

Tucker will turn 33 at the end of next season. Ideally, the Magic should seek a short deal so they can remain flexible heading into the next couple of offseasons and not have to worry about paying him when he inevitably starts to decline.