Knicks Sign P.J. Tucker Amid Injuries, McBride Seeks Redemption

LOS ANGELES — The New York Knicks are making changes as they navigate a challenging season marked by injuries, announcing the signing of veteran forward P.J. Tucker to a 10-day contract on Saturday. The move comes in the wake of Jalen Brunson‘s ankle injury, which has left the team searching for additional depth in its backcourt.

Tucker, 39, has not played this season after being waived by the Toronto Raptors. Known for his toughness and experience, he was a key component of championship teams with the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat but comes to the Knicks amidst questions about his current playing capability.

“Any time you can get a vet, it sounds great,” said Karl-Anthony Towns regarding Tucker’s addition. “I can remember how deadly he was at the corner 3s.”

Brunson sustained his injury during the Knicks’ loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on March 6, leaving New York without its starting point guard. Deuce McBride stepped into the role against the Los Angeles Clippers but struggled, recording only seven points and two assists. “I’ve been a point guard my whole life,” McBride said. “I’ll bounce back and we’ll figure it out.”

In addition to McBride, the Knicks have recalled Tyler Kolek from the G-League as they bolster their guard rotation. Kolek, who made his NBA debut earlier this season, averaged 1.8 points in 29 games played. His promotion comes with the understanding that he will primarily be an emergency option alongside McBride and Cam Payne.

Tucker’s signing is set to be finalized before Monday’s game against the Sacramento Kings. The Knicks can evaluate Tucker over the next five games, after which they could choose to extend his contract or allow him to return to free agency.

The Knicks are currently reeling from the loss of players like Donte DiVincenzo and Isaiah Hartenstein, intensifying the need for leadership and grit in their locker room. Tucker’s presence is seen as a potential stabilizing force during this stretch.

“I think our team right now is pretty tough,” McBride asserted about the current roster’s resilience. Despite recent losses, he believes the team has shown its capacity to secure hard-fought victories.

This season has presented various challenges, including low scoring games for star players like Mikal Bridges, who managed a season-high six free throw attempts against the Clippers, showcasing an effort to step up in Brunson’s absence.

With three more games left on their current road trip, the Knicks are looking to not only find ways to secure critical wins but also to gain momentum from Tucker’s signing and the return of a healthy Brunson.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged Tucker’s toughness and the experience he brings to a young and developing team. “Patrick [Ewing] has all kinds of experience… He’s a championship player,” Thibodeau mentioned about the guidance Tucker can provide.

As they search for a solid finish to the season, the Knicks believe that the addition of Tucker might serve as a push towards reclaiming their identity on the court.