We last discussed Greg Oden back in February, when he visited with Celtics management in Waltham with a plan to return in 2013-14. A few weeks later, we heard reports that Cleveland, Miami and Boston were in the running.
How does Greg look after 5 microfracture knee surgeries? Former Ohio State forward Deshaun Thomas tells the News Herald:
“Man, he looks unbelievable,” he said at the draft combine. “He’s running. He’s lifting weights. You might be seeing a comeback. He looks like he’s ready to go. He’s running, getting in shape. I’ll tell you one thing. For a big 7-footer that’s all he does, running and getting in shape. He’s looking right.”
Thomas said Oden is working out at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Indianapolis.
Interesting. Very interesting.
I want Oden on the Celtics next season… at the right price.
How much is a 25-year-old 7-footer who hasn’t played in 3 years due to horrible knees worth?
When Brandon Roy and his creaky knees came out of retirement to play with Minnesota, he signed a 2 year, $10 million contract with $5 million guaranteed.
But given the derth of quality big men in the NBA, Oden could get much more and fall out of the Celtics range. The Celtics salary cap situation is very tricky and near impossible to predict until a decision is made on Paul Pierce.
Will GMs offer Oden more than $5 million per? Before you laugh, remember height and potential turn the smartest NBA execs into fools.
Oden’s made nearly $24 million in his short career. Will he chase the dollars or bypass some cash to sign with a team that gives him a chance to win?
I’d be comfortable signing Oden to a 2 year deal in the $10 million range that’s partially guaranteed.
File under: Wait and see.
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Alan Draper
Alan Draper
