NBA Trade Rumors: Bucks are setting sights on PJ Tucker

The NBA has only seen two trades occur so far in the 2020-21 season. With five weeks until the trade deadline, however, rumors continue to swirl as teams evaluate their willingness to acquire additional talent or part ways with big contracts with an eye toward the future.

Let’s take a look at this week’s top trade rumors.

Sixers are eyeing Kyle Lowry

We brought up the possibility last week of the Toronto Raptors parting with their long-time star point guard, and those rumors appear to be heating up. The Philadelphia 76ers have two elite talents in Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, but both players would benefit tremendously from a true ball-controlling point guard like Lowry.

Lowry has proven postseason success as well, which is something that Embiid and Simmons lack. If the 76ers believe the "Process" is now, they are the likeliest team to make a run at Lowry’s big contract and the consequent rewards he might offer.

Blake Griffin and Pistons are headed towards a buyout

The Detroit Pistons’ big man is probably more likely to be bought out than traded, but until that happens he remains on the trading block. You have to wonder what teams would be willing to part with to add the former All-Star.

The Oklahoma City Thunder don’t seem likely to forfeit any youth, and the Miami Heat would surely not surrender any of their young pieces either. The Boston Celtics’ Danny Ainge has admitted he needs a better roster, and the Los Angeles Lakers have always shown a willingness to spend on big-name expired talent. We surely haven’t seen the last of Griffin, so his destination and how meaningful it will be for a playoff contender will be an interesting watch.

Bucks are setting sights on PJ Tucker

The Houston Rockets continue to be targeted in trade rumors, with veteran forward PJ Tucker the latest player sought by NBA contenders looking to improve their defense and add a veteran presence.

Tucker has been consistently underrated. He offers outstanding defense and efficient shooting, and is the consummate team player. For a team like the Bucks, who clearly have a hole or two to fill if, Tucker would be a cost-effective solution. Don't be surprised if he ends up in Milwaukee in another month.

Andre Drummond is a perfect fit for the Hornets

It isn’t a matter of if, but when, center Andre Drummond gets the call placing him on a new team. Drummond is still just 27 years old and has lots left in the tank to offer the right team looking for help on the interior. One franchise that has emerged as an interesting destination is the Charlotte Hornets.

As the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference, the Hornets will likely pull out all the stops to make a playoff push. Guards LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, and Gordon Hayward have been playing well, but center Cody Zeller is uninspiring, and Drummond would offer a big boost at the position.