DownSwinging.com

Hedo Turkoglu has chosen to opt-out of his contract with the Magic and entertain offers as a Free Agent. Turkoglu was one of the Magic’s go-to guys in their NBA Finals run, and his value has never been higher. Turkoglu not only exhibited his keen eye for the basket, but he also showed that when the offence is in a funk, he has no problem bringing the ball up himself, and running a slower, more deliberate offensive scheme. While this may seem a very precarious situation that Orlando now finds itself in, not all is lost just yet. Despite the rumors that Hedo is looking for around $10m/season, there are recent reports that indicate that Magic are  willing to pay the luxury tax in order to hang onto their Turkish sharpshooter. So while Turkoglu is looking for a big payout, he may get it while still being a part of the Magic show come November. In case he does not re-up with the Magic, however, it is always fun to take a look at where Hedo might be plying his trade in the new season…

This blogger claims that the three most-likely options are Detroit, Toronto and Portland. I like these options, as it is very clear that these teams have cap space, and are looking for offensive ignition. Turkoglu on a young Portland team with two 7-footers could be a devastating combination. A team inluding Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, Greg Oden and Turkoglu would definitely be a powerful force in the Northwest Division.

The only other three options that appear at all viable, would be Sacramento, Oklahoma City or Memphis. Sacramento has been in love with Turkoglu ever since they traded him to the Magic, and would very much like to see him back in northern California. Memphis and OK City, on the other hand do not seem particularly interested as both have options at the 3 and 4 spots and are involved in youth-based rebuilding movements; lastly, Turkoglu is a “win now” kind of player, at the age of 30. Either way, I think it will be telling where Turkoglu goes, as it will reveal his basketball priorities. If he selects a team like Sacramento, who will most likely be able to pay the most, it will be clear that he wants as much money as he can get. However if he re-signs with the Magic, who will offer less because of their massive commitments to Rashard Lewis ($18m/year) and Dwight Howard ($15.1m/year), it will indicate his intention to win a trophy before his glorious basketball career comes to a close.