by Tracy Weissenberg / @basketballista
It has been a trying season for the Sixers. New additions Andrew Bynum and Jason Richardson are both are out of the lineup with knee injuries. Bynum has never logged a minute on the floor in a Sixers uniform, while Andre Iguodala, an All-Star last year in Philadelphia, is contributing to a surging Nuggets team.
After making the Playoffs for the past two seasons, the Sixers are on the outside looking in. With a 23-37 record, they stand at fifth in the division and 10th in the conference. After 10 losses in their last 11 games, the schedule will only get tougher. The team plays 14 of its final 22 games on the road.
But the season filled with uncertainties has not been without its bright spots. Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner are putting together career years, bringing consistency that is often elusive in an ever-shifting lineup.
Turner is the only Sixer to start all 60 games. When arriving as the second overall pick in 2010, Turner’s skills were evident, though he lacked a clear position and role on the team. After starting a combined 34 games in his first two seasons, Turner has made a big impact in his third year, averaging career highs in points, rebounds, assists and minutes. While the absence of Iguodala has opened up a larger role for the versatile swingman, Turner has always proven willing and able to adjust his game.
Before Wednesday’s matchup against the Hawks, Turner took some time to chat with SLAMTV about the team, his game, and the mindset necessary to get through a long season.
