Shooting guard Evan Turner admitted he would be likely traded this season after failing to receive a contract extension from the Philadelphia 76ers before the deadline, the versatile swingman told the Philadelphia Inquirer last weekend.
Turner, the second overall pick in the 2010 Draft, really believes his days are numbered with general manager Sam Hinkie looking more resigned than ever to trade his remaining assets and build for the future.
The former Ohio State standout said there were no negotiations that took place whatsoever regarding his contract extension. But then, he believed there's nothing to expect from Hinkie as he's most likely to be dealt at some point this season.
"There was nothing whatsoever," Turner told Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer. "Nothing was done. That's it. There was nothing to talk about. There was no discussion."
"I didn't expect anything, because Hinkie is not my GM. He has his own plan for stuff, and that's pretty much it," he added.
The 76ers had a chance to come up with an extension deal with Turner last week but decided to stay put. The franchise can still lock up Turner for another season by offering him an $8.7 million qualifying contract.
Turner averaged 10.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists through his first three seasons. Last year, the 6-foot-7 swingman pushed up his production by tallying an average of 13.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.
This year, Turner is off to a hot start as he has averaged 23 points, 4.0 boards and 4.3 rebounds per game for the 76ers, who surprisingly won their first three games - all against projected playoff contenders (Miami Heat, Washington Wizards, and Chicago Bulls).
Turner said he already accepted his fate of playing for another team, stressing that all he's going to do is to work hard.
"I just show up and work hard," Turner said. "I'll be somewhere next year, so all that other stuff doesn't bother me."