Grizzlies Explore Free Agent Greg Oden

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The Memphis Grizzlies have explored center Greg Oden, expressing interest in the recent past with a workout in the spring, and will potentially bring in the former No. 1 overall NBA pick to a free-agent camp in June, league sources told RealGM.

Oden, the first overall selection to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007, played with the Miami Heat last season. He scored 67 points and grabbed 54 rebounds in 23 games.

The Grizzlies’ current level of interest in Oden remains unclear, but the franchise is believed to be having a free-agent mini-camp in the upcoming weeks -- like many organizations around the NBA. Oden is undecided in his possible participation there.

Oden's close friend and former teammate, Mike Conley, spoke late this season about the possibility of the seven-footer's comeback. Surely, Oden’s comfort level with the Grizzlies rises with Conley’s stature on the team.

In averaging 15.7 points and 9.6 rebounds, Oden led Ohio State to the NCAA championship game in 2007 and had the base of a foundational player at the NBA level. Nevertheless, knee injuries provided constant setbacks.

Oden, 27, has played two NBA seasons for Portland and one for Miami.

[NovU]

I don't think he can move around quickly enough at NBA level. He had trouble containing his own man, let alone playing help D.

China, why not? They pay good money and probably easier on knees in terms of playing at professional level.

[Andrew]

As long as he has the medical clearance to try, and teams are willing to give him an opportunity, I say why not. Playing in the NBA was obviously once a dream of his, and unfortunately for him, it didn't work out quite as well as I'm sure he would've liked. No great expectations, but best of luck to him.

[mp3]

He showed a few flashes of his old self with the Heat but for the major part sat out with sore knee's.

Like Brandon Roy with the Twolves I think if he tried a comeback again I think it would be short lived sadly.