Sixers Notes: Young's contract is not extended

WASHINGTON - Technically, a new chapter of Thaddeus Young's career began Tuesday night against the Washington Wizards.

Young, who did not sign a contract extension with the 76ers by Monday's 5 p.m. deadline, could become a restricted free agent as of July 1, 2011.

Previously secure in his contract situation with the Sixers, Young now must consider how each performance affects his situation in the future.

"I know at the end of the day these guys all want playing time so they can play well," said Sixers coach Doug Collins. "And the better they play, the more money they can make. So there's a lot that's at stake for these young guys."

Entering Tuesday night, Young was averaging 10.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 23 minutes per game.

"Thad is ultrasensitive and one of my favorite guys, and I don't want him to put that pressure where Thad is out there thinking every single night, 'I want to play great so I can get a contract extension,' " Collins said.

Before the game, Young called the lack of an extension "disappointing."

"Hey, if they want me to prove something, then I'm willing to go out there and prove it," Young said.

Before tip-off, rookie guard Evan Turner, who entered the game shooting 42.3 percent from the field, called his jump shot "all right."

"One thing I'd say is lately . . . I missed a few shots," Turner said. "I felt like they should have gone in. I kind of feel like I have confidence they'll go in pretty soon. I feel like I'm about to catch a pretty good rhythm."

Collins, who coached the Wizards from 2001 to '03, said he texted NBA legend Michael Jordan on Monday night. Collins coached Jordan with both the Chicago Bulls and the Wizards.

"I said, 'Michael, just walking around the city and it brings back a lot of memories of being here with you,' " Collins said.

Washington guard Gilbert Arenas, battling an ankle injury, did not play Tuesday. Arenas was placed on the inactive list and has yet to play a game this season. . . . Forward Craig Brackins and guard Jodie Meeks remained on the Sixers' inactive list, where they have been all season.

- Kate Fagan