Greg Oden Ready for Action

Written by: Phil Partington | Hoops4life.com

There’s been so much buzz over rookies Michael Beasley and Derrick Rose that many seem to forget that the 2007 No. 1 overall draft pick, Greg Oden, will also be a rookie this season.

After missing the 2007-2008 season to injury, Oden’s rehabilitation is officially over. Though he’s not yet in playing shape, he still has plenty of time to be ready for next season and one has to imagine that he’s itching to make every moment count.

Fans who think Oden will turn the NBA inside-out and be an immediate All Star should back up a bit. Oden’s going to have to pace himself. He’s certainly gifted, but he still has much to learn and is still growing into his size and abilities.  

For the beginning stages of his career, Oden will rely on his defensive timing on the block as his main staple. With a capable offensive weapon in the paint in LaMarcus Aldridge, Oden should shoot for a more moderate scoring average than the 20 points per game some are pegging him to collect.

If Oden is able to score 10 ppg, grab around 10 rbpg, and block about two shots per game, that would be a huge boost for the Blazers and should be considered a productive year for Oden. Unfortunately, that output may not be good enough for some. Those folks may be putting Oden on too high a pedestal.   

The Blazers should be much improved, not only with the addition of Oden, but also with the additions of rookie Jerryd Bayless (who tore up summer league with his perimeter scoring) and Rudy Fernandez (an intense two-guard from Spain who reminds some of a poor man’s Manu Ginobili).

With Brandon Roy leading the squad and an assortment of athletic forwards and guards to throw in the mix, Portland should be able to make a push for the playoffs in a tough Western Conference.

Meanwhile, Oden will be vying for 2009 NBA Rookie of the Year along with Beasley, Rose, Mayo, and others from the 2008 NBA Draft.

This article is also posted at Hoops4Life.com, a basketball fan's site.