Because Portland had too many players after their recent trades they have waived center Greg Oden. Oden, who was the first pick in the 2007 draft (ahead of Durant), has tremendous upside but unfortunately his knees have always kept him from becoming a factor in the league. He's out until feb 2013 and possibly longer due to yet another surgery - in fact it's likely he will never play again.

However:

I say we go grab him. I'm not entirely sure about this, but I think we can use what's left of the Speezy trade exception after the Sam Young trade to take his salary. We don't have anything to lose, except for paying his salary - but the new owner group has said that they've got deep pockets; well here's a chance to prove it. Oden's contract expires after this year and we should be able to sign him for a couple of years cheaply.

Worst case scenario: He never sees playing time in the league again, and thus the team has to play his salary, which should be low (otherwise I would never resign him)

Best case scenario: Oden recovers from his knee woes and is able to play 25-30 minutes a game where he will a great impact on the team.

So what are your thoughts? Do you want to stay as far as possible away from Oden's knees or are you willing to take a small chance on a center with great upside?