Raptors’ P.J. Tucker Racks Up $75,000 Fine This NBA Season

P.J. Tucker is setting records this NBA season – but not ones that have to do with on-court success.

The Los Angeles Clippers forward was fined $75,000 by the NBA for making public trade demands, per a statement released by the league.

It’s the largest fine an NBA player has had to pay since August when a similar scenario played out with superstar guard James Harden. He was also penalized for making public trade demands.

In a conversation with Andscape’s Marc Spears, Tucker explained his desire to have an impactful role on a team other than the Clippers.

“I want to be somewhere where I’m needed, wanted and can do it all,” he said. “I’m hoping to go somewhere else whether I get bought out and choose where I go or where I can play.”

This conversation sparked the NBA’s interest and fined Tucker for his public remarks on trade speculation.

Tucker voicing his frustrations, mirroring Harden’s prior dissatisfaction, highlights how players are more open than ever to voice their displeasure with an organization, despite the risk of fines. With player empowerment being a theme across the NBA for several years now, it seems that players are using their platform to maximize their power in landing the best deals and trades for themselves.

Article by Benji Ferraro