Nearly a year after having knee surgery, former No. 1 overall pick Greg Oden has decided to resume his playing career, and according to an ESPN.com report, the Miami Heat are first in line in pursing the big man's talents.
The Heat potentially could have two roster spots available this season, one of which Oden could slid into as he continues his rehabilitation. Team president Pat Riley is known to take gambles on players, especially when it comes to a player at the big man position.
Oden had his third microfracture surgery, this one in his left knee, in February 2012. He has not played since Dec. 5, 2009, and appeared in just 82 games with the Blazers while suffering from a series of knee injuries.
One concern for the Heat is with their payroll coming nearly close to $90 million in a year, Oden potentially would be a costly gamble even given a minimum contract. The Heat are also currently about $14 million over the luxury-tax line for this season.
The Heat have been on the lookout for a center since the formation of the big three, three years ago. They've shown interest in Oden before, but he ended up taking a one-year. $8.9 million deal with the Blazers.
Oden averaged 9.4 points and 7.3 rebounds in parts of two seasons in Portland.
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