Greg Oden WILL play in the NBA again. It’s just a matter of for which team, and when. A couple weeks ago we mentioned the Miami Heat were interested in signing the big man. It makes a ton of sense for the Heat as Oden could be the missing piece to their puzzle as they lack depth up front.
But in the last couple weeks, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics have also emerged as suitors for Oden’s services.
The 7-foot Oden, who hasn’t played since Dec. 5, 2009 due to multiple knee injuries, is hoping to take a visit down to Miami to meet with Pat Riley and the Heat in the next week, a source told CBSSports.com.
Miami would likely offer a deal for minimum salary while the Cavs could pay up to nearly $4 million. The Boston Celtics are another team that has expressed interest, but the source said that Oden is leaning towards making a comeback with either Cleveland or Miami. (via CBS Sports)
Although still in his early 20’s, Greg Oden has been through more knee surgeries (including multiple microfracture) than I care to count. At this point, worst case scenario he gets signed to a shorter term contract and gets reinjured. Best case scenario he makes a comeback, builds his confidence off the bench, and eventually blossoms into even half the player we thought he might be. Which is pretty damn good. Most likely scenario however is he makes his comeback, plays limited minutes off the bench, and shows flashes of brilliance.
No matter what happens, given what this kid has gone through over the past few years, here’s hoping he is successful.
