First, Evan Turner was trying to persuade the Wizards to take him with the first pick in the NBA Draft. Now, the national player of the year is starting to lose what had been a secure grip on his No. 2 status.
Even before Doug Collins was named new head coach in Philadelphia and ESPN’s Chad Ford updated his mock draft, Turner wasn’t a perfect fit for the 76ers. Despite his versatility and NBA readiness, Philly already has a playmaker in Andre Iguodala and a budding point guard in Jrue Holiday. Collins’ defensive emphasis furthers the argument that Derrick Favors — who impressed the tape measure at the NBA Draft combine — or DeMarcus Cousins could be the Sixers’ choice.
Another player that could have an effect on how the first round of the draft unfolds is Jeff Green. His diminished production in the playoffs prompted this question: Can and should Oklahoma City find a way to keep him long term?
Green and Kevin Durant, drafted in the top five together in 2007, can both sign extensions starting in July. Durant is sure to get a maximum offer, but the Thunder could let Green become a restricted free agent. They’ll then have the chance to match any offers next summer, but Russell Westbrook also will be up for an extension, and James Harden will be right behind him.
Add to this equation talk that the Thunder might trade up in next month’s draft to claim a top 10 big man, and the way could be paved for Green to be the first departure from Oklahoma City’s exciting young core.
