Turner’s triple-double is historical anomaly for Trail Blazers

Evan Turner picked up the fourth triple-double of his career in the Trail Blazers’ 132-122 win over the Timberwolves on Monday.

Turner’s accomplishment was notable for a couple reasons. First, the NBA’s stats department pointed out that it is unheard of for a bench player to shoot perfectly from the field and pull off a triple-double:

Second, Blazers digital reporter Casey Holdahl penned an article noting that the Blazers have had a dearth of triple-doubles in recent years, but have had more success this season:

But after going years without a triple-double, the Trail Blazers had seen three of their players achieve that sought-after statistical milestone this season. First, it was Jusuf Nurkic just barely breaking the seal by getting a triple-double of 10 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in victory versus the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 16, 2019. Ten days later, CJ McCollum joined the club by completing the first triple-double of his career with 28 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds in a win versus the Hawks at the Moda Center on January 26.

Monday night in Minneapolis, with both Nurkic and McCollum sidelined with injuries, Evan Turner completed the third triple-double of Portland’s season.

Holdahl noted that head coach Terry Stotts was pleased with Turner’s night:

“Evan played a great role as a facilitator, doing a little bit of everything with his triple-double,” said Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts. “It was a big game for Evan to bounce back with everything that he did.”