NBA Trade Rumors: Greg Oden to Remain A Free Agent

Upon announcing his intent to return to the National Basketball Association, Greg Oden has sent the rumor mill in numerous directions.

Dec 16, 2011; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trailblazers center Greg Oden (52) poses for a photo during media day at the Rose Garden. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports

Just a few weeks ago the Charlotte Bobcats and Cleveland Cavaliers were prepared to make an offer to sign the free agent center.

According to Marc Spears of Yahoo Sports, Oden had decided not to rush his return and will wait until the summer to sign a new contract with a new team.

Oden hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2009-10 season because of a numerous injuries. He has only effectively played one full season in the span of five years. His proneness to injury could hurt his stock.

He averages 9.4 points per game in his career with 7.3 rebounds per game.

However, recently the Miami Heat have begun to show some serious interest in signing the twenty-five year old former Ohio State Buckeye.

It was a tough, but smart decision for Oden to make when he decided not to rush his return. It will help his injuries and also show maturity to teams looking to make an offer for his services.