The Utah Jazz are exploring the possibility of buying out PJ Tucker if they are unable to trade him, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
League sources told HoopsHype that the Jazz hope to flip Tucker for salary relief and future draft assets. However, if no trade materializes, the team plans to move forward with a buyout.
Tucker, who is in the final year of his three-year, $33 million contract, was traded to Utah on February 1, along with Mo Bamba, a 2030 second-round pick, and cash considerations. In exchange, the Jazz sent Drew Eubanks and Patty Mills to the Clippers.
Before the 2024-25 season, the Clippers made it clear that Tucker would not be part of their plans moving forward. Tucker, 39, has seen a decline in production, appearing in just 28 games last season while averaging only 1.6 points per game in 15 minutes.
Tucker is owed $11 million for the 2024-25 season, which could make it difficult to find a suitor willing to absorb his contract. The Jazz are currently last in the Western Conference with an 11-36 record, making future-focused moves a priority.
While Tucker could be a valuable veteran presence for a contending team, Utah’s rebuilding phase leaves little room for him to contribute meaningfully. Thus, the Jazz are looking to trade him for future assets, but a buyout remains a likely option if a deal does not come to fruition.
