Miami Heat’s PJ Tucker declines millions to go his own way

Miami, Florida - PJ Tucker has decided to opt out of his $7.4 million contract option with the Miami Heat next season to enter into the free agency portal.

NBA Forward PJ Tucker at the foul line during a game.
NBA Forward PJ Tucker at the foul line during a game.  © Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

Entering his 13th NBA season at age 37, there is still a lot of demand for the Heat's forward PJ Tucker. Enough that the basketball champion will opt out of his $7.4 million player option with Miami for the 2022-23 season to become an unrestricted free agent, per reports.

After helping the Milwaukee Bucks win the title in 2021, Tucker is coming off of a stellar season in Miami, where he helped lead one of the NBA's best defense teams this year.

Tucker averaged 7.6 points and 5.5 rebounds in 71 games this season, his first with the Heat. He started in all 18 games during Miami's postseason run, and was key in helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics.

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By declining his million-dollar option for the upcoming season, Tucker enters free agency and can negotiate a new deal - whether he’s seeking a pay raise, a longer deal for more assurance, or both.

Tucker is expected to receive interest from multiple championship contending teams, including his former title-winning team, the Bucks.

While several big teams are reportedly already interested in the athlete, the Heat will also remain in the race to possibly sign him again.

Cover photo: Collage: Screenshot / Instagram / pjtucker & Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

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