In a move that stirred speculation among basketball fans, the Los Angeles Clippers have reportedly sent home two players, P.J. Tucker and Bones Hyland, from their road trip against the Golden State Warriors. However, there’s a twist to this development—they are both expected to rejoin the team after the All-Star break, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
P.J. Tucker’s name had been circulating in trade talks leading up to the deadline. As a veteran forward who had fallen out of Tyron Lue’s rotation, Tucker was seen as a potential buyout candidate if not traded. Similarly, Bones Hyland, a promising backup point guard, was also mentioned as a possible trade target, given the Clippers’ surplus in that position.
Despite the speculation, neither player was moved before the trade deadline. Now, with both Tucker and Hyland away from the team temporarily, questions arise about their future roles with the Clippers. However, recent reports suggest that discussions between the Clippers and Tucker have been productive, with the forward staying ready for a potential return to the rotation.
The decision not to buy out Tucker was influenced by various factors, including his $11.5 million salary for the next season, making him a valuable trade asset for the Clippers in the summer. Additionally, Tucker’s skill set, although not as sharp as it was in previous years, could still prove beneficial in playoff matchups.
As for Bones Hyland, his absence from the road trip raises questions about his future role with the team. However, given his potential and the Clippers’ depth at the guard position, he could still carve out a niche for himself in limited minutes.
In other news, the Clippers announced that Kawhi Leonard will miss Wednesday night’s game against the Warriors due to an adductor strain. This marks only the fifth game Leonard has missed this season, and with the All-Star break approaching, the timing of his absence is relatively favorable for the team. However, there is speculation that Leonard may also sit out the All-Star Game itself, potentially leading Commissioner Adam Silver to select a replacement.
As the Clippers navigate through injuries and roster adjustments, the team’s performance post-All-Star break will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, with Tucker and Hyland’s roles becoming a focal point of discussion in the weeks to come.
