Oden Joins the Heat

No surprises here that former #1 overall pick Greg Oden decided to join LeBron James and the Miami Heat in their quest for a 3-peat. Oden signed a 2-year deal worth the veteran minimum with a player option for year 2. Oden's contract will pay him $1.03 million in 2013-14 and $1.14 million in 2014-15 if Oden picks up that option. Oden is only 25 years old but has earned nearly $24 million in salary since being drafted No. 1 overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007. Oden has only appeared in 82 games in his career due to his knee troubles.

Oden was deciding which team to join out of 6 possible choices. Oden chose the Heat over the Spurs, Mavericks, Pelicans, Kings and the Hawks. Oden chose the team where he has the best chance to win an NBA Championship. Oden currently weighs about 275 lbs but has hopes of slimming down even more. Oden's main goal is to get through an NBA season fully healthy. Oden hasn't played in an NBA game since December 5, 2009. Stay tuned as Oden tries to continue his storybook comeback.

By Steven Spector -8-3-13