After multiple media outlets reported that free agent forward Hedo Turkoglu agreed to a deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, the former Orlando Magic star pulled a disappearing act and signed with the Toronto Raptors.
ESPN NBA reporter Ric Bucher reports that Turkoglu had many in Blazers’ management believing he was a done deal. While negotiating over the small details of a reported five-year, $50 million contract, the Raptors made a strong push for Turkoglu and ultimately won him over. It is believed he will receive $56 million dollar deal over five years, earning $10 million dollars his first season.
Yahoo Sports claims the move to head to Toronto might be partially due to Turkoglu’s wife, who wants to live in the city’s more European-style atmosphere.
The nine-year veteran played with the Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs before signing with the Magic in 2004, agreeing to a six-year, $36 million contract. Coincidentally, Turkoglu backed out of negotiations for a five-year deal with the Phoenix Suns before heading to Orlando.
Turkoglu’s stock grew following this past season, where he averaged 16.8 points per game in the regular season and was a big part in the Magic’s run to an NBA Finals appearance. Mr. Fourth Quarter, a nickname dubbed by the media, decided to cash in on the memorable season by opting out of the last year of his contract. Turkoglu would have made $7.3 million had he stayed with the Magic in 2009-10. Instead of trying to lure him back, the Magic traded for eight-time All-Star forward Vince Carter.
The deal with Turkoglu might spell the end for free agents Shawn Marion, Anthony Parker, and Carlos Delfino returning to Toronto. According to Sporting News, the Raptors might not be able to use the midlevel exemption.
