Horton-Tucker eyes NBA return with 21-day lifeline before Fenerbahce contract takes effect
Talen Horton-Tucker, the former Los Angeles Lakers guard, may still have a shot at returning to the NBA despite recently signing a contract with Fenerbahce Istanbul in Turkey. According to insights shared by Marc Stein, Horton-Tucker’s deal includes a crucial 21-day window that allows him to pursue opportunities within the NBA before officially joining the EuroLeague powerhouse.
A Glimmer of Hope for Horton-Tucker
After six seasons in the league, Horton-Tucker is eager to make his mark once again. The 24-year-old has not yet set foot on the court for Fenerbahce, as the contract stipulates that he can explore NBA options during this brief period. The potential for a return to the NBA has sparked conversations among league insiders, with Stein consulting fellow analyst Keith Smith to gauge the landscape of open roster spots around the league.
While many teams are currently exploring their options, the Lakers are among the clubs with room for an additional player. However, the likelihood of Horton-Tucker reuniting with his former team appears slim.
Reflecting on a Promising Yet Unfulfilled Career
Horton-Tucker’s journey began with the Lakers, where he played his first three seasons and displayed moments of brilliance. Yet, despite flashes of his potential, he struggled to elevate his game consistently. This inconsistency ultimately led to his trade to the Utah Jazz ahead of the 2022-23 season, where he hoped to find a fresh start.
During his stint with the Lakers, Horton-Tucker averaged 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game. His shooting percentages sat at 43.7% from the field and 27.6% from three-point range over 131 games.
Horton-Tucker spent two seasons with the Jazz before moving to the Chicago Bulls last year. In his lone season with Chicago, he played 58 games, averaging 6.5 points, 1.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 0.4 steals per night. His shooting improved slightly to 45.7% from the field and 33.6% from beyond the arc, but he was only able to log 12.5 minutes per game.
The Road Ahead
As Horton-Tucker navigates this pivotal 21-day period, the question remains: will he find a new home in the NBA or shift his focus entirely to his upcoming overseas adventure? If a deal doesn’t materialize, he will have the opportunity to showcase his talents with Fenerbahce, where he can potentially rebuild his career on a different stage.
The basketball world is watching closely as Horton-Tucker’s next move could define the next chapter of his career, whether it remains in the NBA or ventures overseas.
