Evan Turner to miss 76ers game against Suns

It's been a week since the Sixers last took the court, suffering a 10-point loss in Milwaukee. But it appears they suffered a bit more than just their 12th loss in 13 road games. After the game it was revealed that Evan Turner was battling a sore right knee. Though the team had three days off over the holidays and Turner participated in the team's two practice in Phoenix on Thursday and Friday, the knee wound up feeling sore again today and it made him a spectator for tonight's game against the Suns.

"Evan Turner will not play tonight," said coach Brett Brown. Turner did not participate in the team's morning shootaround but the coach said he would be good for the game. It became apparent closer to game time that resting him would be the right move. "After shootaround we assessed his injury a little more and it's nothing severe, it's my decision. Evan would want to play tonight. I think that when you sit down and talk to the trainer and you really listen to Evan that it is not wise for me to play him. I feel like over the years I have learned a lot from Pop (Gregg Popovich) about the rhythm of an NBA season and trying to care for the players and ultimately care for the program and that team. Evan played 82 games last year, he hasn't missed a game this year, he has come in with great fitness. It's nothing to get worried about. This is my decision."

It is just the fifth game Turner has missed during his four years in the league. He is averaging 19.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4 assists this season. His spot in the starting lineup against the Suns will be taken by Elliot Williams.