The Boston Celtics are close to their first real move of the NBA offseason. No, it’s not a trade of Rajon Rondo to another team or the acquisition of All-Star big man Kevin Love. Instead, Boston is reportedly in the process of finalizing a free-agent deal with former Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers forward Evan Turner.
Celtics finishing deal for FA Evan Turner, sources tell Herald. He will get a portion of their mid-level exception.
— Steve Bulpett (@SteveBHoop) July 21, 2014
Turner, the second overall pick back in the 2010 NBA draft, was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Indiana Pacers last season and failed to make much of an impact with his new team. After averaging 17.4 points and six rebounds per game with Philadelphia, Turner put up an average of just 7.1 points in 27 games in Indiana.
He’s considered more of a talented enigma on the court at this point. Turner’s numbers were inflated a great deal with Philadelphia due to its complete lack of talent on a roster that ended the season with just 19 wins. Once he went to a contending team with more talent, the former Ohio State standout disappeared completely.
Turner ranked 25th on our list of the top free agents available.
Photo: CSN Philly