Evan Turner easing into leadership role for 76ers

Ever since the 76ers took Evan Turner with the second-overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, Philadelphia fans have been quick to label the former Ohio State Buckeye as a bust. But this season, Turner has stepped up his game, secured a spot in the starting lineup, and become a team leader.

As Bob Cooney of the Daily News points out, part of Turner's development has been an improving relationship with coach Doug Collins. Cooney writes,

Not many times over the past few years would people equate Collins and Turner as kindred souls. Mortal enemies may have been more believable, as the two often seemed to be at odds. But Collins handed Turner the starting keys and ample playing time in last season's playoffs and Turner responded ... With consistency comes trust from a coach. Gone are the days of Turner coming off the bench or playing limited minutes. His coach's trust is solidly rooted now.

Turner's playing time is up almost eight minutes per game compared to last season. He's currently averaging 14.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.

To learn more about Turner's development, click here to read the entirety of Cooney's article.