Evan Turner Hints At Hometown Discount For Celtics
BOSTON (CBS) -- Evan Turner has made it clear that he wants to make some money this summer, but he's also made it pretty clear that he loved being a member of the Boston Celtics.
Now, Turner sounds like he may be able to get the best of both worlds when he hits the free agent market in July. Speaking with CSNNE at fundraiser on Sunday, Turner said he'd be willing to take a slight hometown discount this summer if it means he gets to remain with the Celtics.
"Of course. I joke with people, this is the first time I left an exit interview and the team wanted me back," said Turner, who has said Boston head coach Brad Stevens told him he wanted him back after the season came to an end. "I don't take that lightly, you know what I'm saying? At the end of the day, I'm grateful for that."
Turner knows the Celtics are currently a team in transition, waiting patiently for Tuesday's NBA Draft Lottery to help determine their direction this offseason. The Celtics would like to make a big splash this summer, either on the free agent market or on the trade front, which could squeeze Turner off the roster. But the versatile forward proved to be a valuable part of Boston's success the last two seasons, whether it be in the starting five or as a spark off the bench.
"Hopefully we can figure out a way to make it work. It's a lot going on with the team, with the roster and with the draft picks and things like that. There's definitely admiration on both sides," said Turner. "I trust Danny [Ainge] will do what's best for the organization."
Turner averaged 10.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists for Boston last season, finishing fifth in the voting for the Sixth Man of the Year award. He signed a team-friendly deal with the Celtics two summers ago and while Boston owns his Early Bird rights this summer, he'll likely command a big payday that could keep the C's from landing that top tier free agent the team covets.
