According to NBA insider Shams Charania, a former NBA champion is signing a 10-day contract with the New York Knicks. After discussions with multiple teams, the two sides have reached an agreement.
The Knicks are looking to add toughness to their squad — a veteran who can bring stability and strengthen their lineup just in time for the playoff push.
New York Knicks Seeking Toughness and Championship Pedigree
Free agent PJ Tucker might not fill up the stat sheet, but what does he bring? Defense, grit, and playoff experience. And for a Knicks team aiming for a deep run, that’s exactly what they need.
Free agent PJ Tucker plans to sign with the New York Knicks on a 10-day contract, sources tell ESPN. The 14-year NBA veteran held discussions with multiple teams over the last week. Tucker, a 2021 NBA champion with the Bucks, gives the Knicks an enforcer and frontcourt depth. pic.twitter.com/rDR8A7LqEg
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 8, 2025
At 39 years old, Tucker isn’t the same corner-three threat he was in his prime. But that’s not why the Knicks signed him.
Here’s what they’re looking for:
- An enforcer — someone who’s not afraid to get physical and do the dirty work.
- Frontcourt depth — with injuries in the rotation, extra size and defense are key.
- Playoff experience — a veteran who’s been through deep postseason battles and knows how to win.
Tucker checks all those boxes. For a team that prides itself on defense and physicality, the Knicks just added another player who fits their identity.
The 2021 NBA champion last played during the 2023-24 season, splitting time between the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers. His numbers — 1.7 points and 2.7 rebounds in 15.7 minutes per game — weren’t eye-popping, but his value goes beyond the box score.
How Tucker Fits Into the Knicks’ Playoff Plans
The Knicks could have pursued a traditional center, but with Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and Precious Achiuwa holding down the paint, they opted for Tucker’s versatility instead.
New York didn’t bring in Tucker to be a star — they signed him to play a role, and he knows how to do that better than most. Tucker can slow down physical wings in the playoffs, and one thing is certain: he won’t back down from a fight.
He’ll also be the veteran voice in the locker room — and you can’t put a price on that.
Come playoff time, matchups dictate everything. A player like Tucker can defend multiple positions, take on tough assignments, and bring an edge that could be a difference-maker when the stakes are high.
So no, this isn’t a blockbuster signing. But it’s a smart one. The Knicks just got tougher, meaner, and more battle-tested — exactly what they need heading into the postseason.