The Houston Rockets had a tense team meeting following a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Jan. 12th when it was decided James Harden would stay away from the team until a trade was consummated.

Sources tell Kelly Iko and Sam Amick that P.J. Tucker came away from the meeting with the belief he would be included in any Harden trade, whether it was to the Brooklyn Nets or Philadelphia 76ers.

Tucker was ultimately not included and spent two more months with the Rockets before he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Tucker also became open to a buyout in late February, which would have given him the freedom to choose his destination. The Rockets, however, had no interest in negotiating a buyout as they sought a trade.