HOUSTON (SportsRadio 610)- After taking part in his first training camp practice, Rockets forward P.J. Tucker explained the reason he was absent for the Rockets two-game trip to Chicago over the weekend.
"Multiple reasons," Tucker said. "Strained calf, a lot of stuff going on. I talked to coach, it was all good."
Tucker arrived at Rockets camp a day late, and while he was present during the first week of practice, he didn't participate. At age 35, he is entering the final season of a four-year, $31.9 million contract, and has been quite vocal in his belief that he deserves an extension. Even though he has two years left on his current deal, the Rockets offered James Harden a $103 million extension last month. Tucker wouldn't say if the team has spoken to him about an extension when asked last week.
"I want to be where whoever wants me," Tucker said Monday. "No matter what, that's the kind if player I am. I give them my all, I leave my heart on the floor every single night, and I've done so my whole career, so I want to be where I'm wanted."
When asked if he feels like he's wanted by the Rockets Tucker replied "you should ask them", but added feeling wanted is more than a contract extension.
"The goal is to be in a place where you're wanted, where you want to be. I think that’s what every player wants. It’s certain ways to show that, and it’s not just contract extensions.”
