Toronto Raptors Reacquire P.J. Tucker in Trade with Miami Heat

2025-03-01

The Toronto Raptors have acquired veteran forward P.J. Tucker, a second-round pick, and cash from the Miami Heat in exchange for guard Davion Mitchell, according to multiple reports. The deal, which was finalized on February 6, 2025, marks Tucker’s third stint with the Raptors, the team that originally drafted him in 2006.

Tucker, 39, has been on the move frequently in recent days. Just five days prior, he was traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Utah Jazz as part of a deal involving James Harden. He was then included in a multi-team trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors, which routed him to Miami before being flipped to Toronto. Tucker has not played a game this season following a dispute with the Clippers and is expected to be bought out or released by the Raptors.

Mitchell, a former ninth overall pick, heads to Miami after averaging 6.3 points and 4.6 assists in 44 games with Toronto this season. Known for his defensive prowess, Mitchell’s offensive limitations have made him a less consistent contributor. The Heat, who are looking to stay below the NBA’s first luxury tax apron, will take on Mitchell’s $6.45 million expiring contract instead of Tucker’s $11.54 million deal.

The Raptors, who had cap flexibility after acquiring Larry Nance Jr. from the New Orleans Pelicans, used their mid-level exception to absorb Tucker’s salary, creating a $6.45 million trade exception in the process. The second-round pick acquired in the deal is the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2026 selection.

This trade continues Tucker’s journey as a valuable trade asset due to his expiring contract, while Mitchell gets a fresh start in Miami, where the Heat’s coaching staff may look to maximize his potential.