With the Miami Heat second unit in mind, Evan Turner might be looking for somewhere to continue contributing on a postseason level. He’s a solid player.
Versatile Journeyman
Evan Turner’s a 10-year veteran looking for a new home. Coming off of his 5th team in the Atlanta Hawks, the combo guard/forward has the postseason experience Miami might want on the bench.
His tenure in Atlanta was short-lived, as was the aforementioned Anthony’s. Turner suited up for just 19 games with the Hawks, before eventually being dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
A buyout was the original expectation for his time in Minnesota, but before the deadline struck, the coronavirus outbreak began and the season was put on pause.
There’s no doubt Turner would have been picked up by a contender this year, but the Miami Heat could benefit from his services next season. The 31-year old is a versatile talent and it’s represented in his career averages of 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists on 43/29/78 shooting split.
Yes, his 3-ball isn’t solid. It honestly never has been.
But Derrick Jones Jr. isn’t a marksman by any means and the Heat are still a top-10 team in every 3-point category. Turner would add another ball-handler and rebounding presence to Miami’s second unit, both needs in this scenario.
If the Miami Heat are letting Derrick Jones Jr. walk in free agency, it’s to save cap space for their run at a top free agent next offseason. This should make veteran players like Carmelo Anthony and Evan Turner, guys probably looking for one-year deals and a shot at a championship, their top option as replacements.