Chat Transcript: G/F Hedo Turkoglu
He was slated to be the Orlando Magic's biggest contributor from the bench, but Hedo Turkoglu didn't see pitch in much from the sidelines during the 2005-06 season. That's because the Turkish G-F was making a major contribution in the starting lineup.
When Grant Hill went down during last year's training camp with a sports hernia, Turkoglu jumped into the starting lineup and ended up having the best year of his career. The 27-year-old averaged a career-best 14.9 points per game while shooting better than 40 percent from three-point to help the Magic in a big way.
Turkoglu has transformed his game from being just a solid shooter to an overall threat now that he is confident putting the ball on the floor and driving to the basket. This season, Turkoglu is expected to once again be a big threat in the Magic starting five.
On Wednesday, Turkoglu dropped by the chat with fans on OrlandoMagic.com. Check out what Hedo had to say about his health, this year's team and much more.
Mike(St. Augustine): What is your mystery illness? Is it serious? Will it keep you out for the regular season? I hope not your the reason I got season tickets.
Hedo Turkoglu: Actually, I've been feeling better the past few days. I don't know what the illness is, but I'm waiting for the doctors to tell me the results of a group of tests I've just had. I hope it's good news, that it's not anything serious, and that I can get back out on the court as soon as possible.
Fred (Lakeland): What team aspect did you like most in your win against Charlotte last night?
Hedo Turkoglu: I liked that our team really showed up for the game. They were very focused, and the they played real hard right to the last second of the game. The young guys and the old guys had a good chemistry and it looked good. I can't wait to join them on the court.
Ted Larson,Orlando: Hedo,
Great to have you here in Orlando. Do you prefer to start or come off the bench?
Hedo Turkoglu: This year, it looks like I might start, but that isn't my primary concern, whether I start or come off the bench. I do care about getting minutes and being one of the guys out there in the fourth quarter with the game on the line. I prefer that. Now, there are differences, between being a starter or a guy coming off the bench. And either way, I will adjust and do my best to have my best year ever. I want to build on the work I did last season and improve even more this year.
Magic 31: How are the newcomers fitting in with the team.
Hedo Turkoglu: They are doing well so far. I think it's good to get them here. I hope they will work hard, get better and help our team win games.
Matt(orlando): Hedo, what do you do to get ready for a game?
Hedo Turkoglu: After the shootaround I usually take a nap and rest my body. Then I wake up with more energy for the game. I also like to get to the gym early and loosen up and stretch early so I'm ready when the time comes.
Matt (Edgewater): Hedo, have you given Darko any advice on adjusting to American culture?
Hedo Turkoglu: I'm just trying to help Darko out any way I can. He's still so young, he's only 21 and he might be a little frustrated about his years in Detroit. But he has a good chance here in Orlando and he's a talented kid. He needs to enjoy himself, while also working hard, and he will be okay. We both live in America and we need to adjust to the American culture. America respects us, and we need to respect America too. You just try to be as nice and friendly as you can, and do your best on and off the court. And he knows that.
Brad (maitland): Who win in a three point shootout on this team? You, JJ, or Jameer?
Hedo Turkoglu: Me, JJ and Jameer? Probably between me and Jameer. It will be a little harder for JJ, he has some adjusting to do, with the NBA three-point line. So, I think it would be between me and Jameer, and of course, the winner would be me! Ha-ha (Laughing).
Daniel (Orlando): Hey Hedo
I just wnated to know what you think is the biggest difference between European basketball and the NBA?
Hedo Turkoglu: There are lots of differences, the rules are different in the NBA and Europe. On offense and defense, there are big difference. That makes it harder for the NBA players, that change. Also NBA teams have just started training camp, while the European teams have been playing for a few weeks...maybe months already...so they are more ready for game action. There's a lot of factors.
Siki siki baba: What do u want to do after your basketball career ?
Hedo Turkoglu: It's still too early, I hope, to say now! I want to stay healthy and play as long as I can. When that time comes, I will think about it more. Perhaps I will stay in basketball, maybe be a European Scout, or maybe coach a team, be a shooting coach...or perhaps even work as a TV analyst. It's still too early to say, but those are some of the things I've been considering.
STEPHAN OCOEE: HEDO WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL GOALS ON THE COURT THIS YEAR?
Hedo Turkoglu: It's always been a goal in my career, to be better than I was the last year. That is always my goal..to improve on my play from the prior year. I want to strive to get better every year. I think I can go even further and become a better player than I've been. I'm getting in shape and doing what I can to make that happen. I'm committed to be the best possible player I can be. The past two years have been good for me, and I want to keep going. I just need to overcome this nagging illness and get back on the court and make it happen.
Hedo Turkoglu: I want to let eveyone know that I hope my illness isn't serious. In a few days or a week I hope to be back on the court. Thank you all for supporting me over the years, it's greatly appreciated. God Bless You All and I'll see you at the games.
