USA Today via Reuters
Jun 19, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball against Milwaukee Bucks forward P.J. Tucker (17) in the first quarter during game seven in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jun 19, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball against Milwaukee Bucks forward P.J. Tucker (17) in the first quarter during game seven in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
Kevin Durant and the Brooklyn Nets were one of the favorites to win the NBA title this season. With a stacked team featuring the big three of Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden, the Nets were a loaded team offensively and could outscore any opponent.
But as it was the case for majority of the teams, the Nets saw two of their big three in Irving and Harden suffer through injuries. With an injury laden squad, Kevin Durant could carry the Nets to a game seven against the Milwaukee Bucks in second round. But the Nets crashed out and might look for key additions this off-season.
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Kevin Durant and Nets to target PJ Tucker this off-season
Kevin Durant and the Nets might be an offensive powerhouse, but defense wasn’t their strongest suit last season. This was apparent in the second round matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Bucks who had excellent perimeter defenders like Jrue Holiday, could limit Nets’ shifty guards. But the key matchup in the series was between PJ Tucker and Durant. While Tucker stands only at 6’6″, he was pretty physical and put on a defensive masterclass against the ‘Slim Reaper‘ in multiple games.
USA Today via Reuters
Jun 15, 2021; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets power forward Kevin Durant (7) controls the ball against Milwaukee Bucks power forward P.J. Tucker (17) during the first quarter of game five of the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Given his performance this post-season, the Nets are showing interest in the veteran forward this off-season. According to Athletic’s Alex Schiffer, the Nets have had a keen interest on Tucker even before the Harden trade.
With the 35-year-old entering unrestricted free agency, the Nets have the perfect opportunity to add a versatile defender to their side. But Tucker is coming off of an excellent season with the Bucks and just won a championship.
Given his performances, the forward had for Milwaukee, Giannis and Co. will be keen on keeping the veteran. With his ability to defend 1 through 5, a veteran like Tucker becomes invaluable to a team, especially in the post-season.
Not only is the veteran forward an incredible defender, his numbers from the corner threes is one of the best. Given how often the Nets generally find open shooters, Tucker can be a perfect solution as he can shoot the ball and can defend the ball as well. Can the Nets bring in PJ Tucker this off-season?
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