NBA Rumors: Clippers Don't Want to Trade P.J. Tucker to Contender amid Nuggets Buzz

The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly hesitant to trade forward P.J. Tucker to a contending team that they could potentially meet in the postseason, according to Action Network's Matt Moore.

One such team is the Denver Nuggets, who have been linked to Tucker ahead of the Feb. 8 trade deadline. Although the Nuggets are content with their current rotation, the 38-year-old would give head coach Michael Malone some frontcourt depth.

Tucker was originally part of the trade package that included James Harden during the blockbuster trade between the Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers. He suited up in 12 games for Los Angeles before falling out of the team's rotation, with his last appearance occurring on Nov. 27.

He's shown to be an effective defender who can space the floor from the corner, although his production has declined as he's entered his late 30s. In 15 games with the 76ers and Clippers, Tucker is averaging just 1.3 points and 2.9 rebounds in 15.9 minutes per game. Of note, his 31.3 percent mark on corner threes this season represents the worst percentage of his career (via Basketball Reference).

The Washington Wizards are also a potential trade destination for Tucker, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. If the Wizards acquire him and decide to buyout his contract, the Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks are expected to pursue him as a free agent.