Hedo Turkoglu And Raptors Making Amends

[Built Ford Tough]

Not too long ago, Hedo Turkoglu went on NTV SPOR in Turkey to say that he did not want to return to the Raptors.

 

However, Turkoglu's back on the same TV channel on Thursday, only this time after spending some time listening to the soothing tones of newish Raptors' assistant coach P.J. Carlesimo, who is now in Turkey telling Turkoglu how much better things could be.

 

Here, translated into English, is some of what Turkoglu had to say:

 

"As a basketball player, my only goal is to perform at the highest level again. I want to play in a system that fits me. I’m happy that Carlesimo is here, he’s a good friend of mine since my Spurs days."

 

"Everybody makes mistakes, that’s a fact. Both parties [Hedo and Raptors management] think that it’s time to correct them. Toronto wants me back and to take the leading role. I’m happy that Carlesimo is here, and we will all see what summer brings. I don’t have any problems with the city of Toronto or the Raptors. I want to be able to perform at the highest level."

 

http://espn.go.com/blog/truehoop/post/_/id/17486/hedo-turkoglu-and-raptors-making-amends

 

So it doesn't sound like Turkoglu is going anywhere. Turkoglu is probably comfortable coming back to Toronto now because of the fact that he is going to be one of the focal points in the Raptors offense and will probably be the player that the Raptors run their offense through. I think he realizes that with Bosh leaving this team is basically his for the taking now and he is going to love having the ball in his hands all of the time now.

 

With it sounding like Turkoglu isn't going anywhere, it is absolutely crucial that the Raptors move Calderon though. Calderon seems like a great person and he seems to love the city of Toronto, but he and Turkoglu clearly don't fit together and can't play with one another.

 

It wouldn't surprise me to see the Raptors let Turkoglu run wild next season in an attempt to showcase him for teams around the league. If he plays well enough, I can see the Raptors dealing him around the deadline to a contender.

 

It makes sense for Toronto to do this though. His value can't get much lower than it is now so you might as well try to showcase him.

Edited July 1, 2010 by Built Ford Tough

[Doc]

Ugh why did will overpay for Calderon. He is such a great guy but wil be over looked by his contract.

[bigdog17k]

I wasn't betting on Turk returning to Orlando anyway... but this sounds like a good move for both the Raptors and Hedo. I'd like to see him try more next season.

[Poe]

Good. The Raptors will need Turk next year. I'm expecting a very good year for him, and an even better one if the Raptors manage to trade Calderon.

[Universe]

Translation: Nobody wants a overpaid pizza shooter.