Agent Mike Conley Sr. confirmed to The Herald's Barry Jackson on Tuesday that center Greg Oden is expected to meet with Heat president Pat Riley some time in the next two weeks.
Oden, the No.1 pick in the 2007 draft, has played in just 82 games throughout his career due to chronic knee problems. He has had multiple knee surgeries and might never play professional basketball again. But, hey, the guy is 7-1, so the Heat apparently will due its due diligence in trying to determine if Oden still has a future in basketball.
But let's get a few things straight here. If Oden is healthy enough to attempt a comeback, it will not happen until next season. Oden's visit to Miami hasn't been finalized yet, but when he visits, the Heat is expected to only evaluate his knees. Oden isn't expected to be put through any kind of intense workout on the court.
Now, if the Heat determines Oden still has life in his legs, that still doesn't mean he'll be signing with the Heat next season. Other teams are interested and Oden might receive more playing time and feel more comfortable with a team like Cleveland.
And there is also the matter of money to consider. The Heat will have a mini mid-level exception next season, but, considering the heavy taxes about to kick in due to the new CBA, taking a chance on Oden might not be worth the investment. The mini mid-level is $3 million per season, but, when you throw in the cap tax, his contract would actually cost the Heat much more.
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