Thu, Feb 23, 2017 at 5:04pm

PHOENIX TRADES DEFENSIVE ACE TUCKER TO TORONTO FOR SULLINGER, PICKS

The Toronto Raptors acquired guard / forward P.J. Tucker from the Phoenix Suns for power forward / center Jared Sullinger plus 2nd-round draft picks in 2017 and 2018.

What does it give the Toronto Raptors
Raptors GM Masai Ujiri continues to pull all the right levers to make his team a contender. Tucker fills probably the last significant need Toronto had heading into the stretch and playoffs, that being a seasoned veteran role-playing leader-type who can play shutdown defense. That's Tucker in a nutshell, and it's fitting he heads to the Raptors (since they drafted him in 2006). If he doesn't pan out ideally, his expiring contract can come off the ledgers following this season. Sullinger just didn't catch on with the Raptors after an early-season injury.

What does it give the Phoenix Suns
Sullinger plus two second-rounders is a solid haul here for Tucker's expiring deal. Sullinger too has a contract set to run out after this campaign, so the young Suns get flexibility plus added draft options. In pure basketball terms, in Sullinger the Suns pick up a good post scorer who can add energy, physicality, rebounds, and points off the pine (or as a starter if needed).

Fantasy impact
This trade helps Toronto much more in real life than it will aid anyone in fantasy leagues. Tucker is a great defender but not a fantasy factor, while Sullinger looks like a longshot to be a major contributor the rest of the way--especially after his slow start to this season. Look for Sullinger to compete with fellow newcomer Mike Scott for minutes off Phoenix's bench (assuming he isn't bought out by the Suns).