Sad news broke last night when reports surfaced that former Lawrence North star, Greg Oden was scheduled for a second microfracture surgery on his left knee which would once again end his season before it ever started.
Hopefully Oden can return to the court and actually play next season. Forget playing to a level worthy of the top pick in the draft, just playing the majority of games in a season would be nice to see. Portland did not pick up Oden's contract option for next season so he will be a restricted free agent next summer. But contract details and where he'll play again are far less important than when he'll play again.
Speaking of local legends, Eric Gordon will be at Conseco Fieldhouse tonight when his struggling Los Angeles Clippers face the Indiana Pacers. The Clips got nipped at the buzzer last night when Michael Beasly hit a nice jumper to break a tie and give the Minnesota Timberwolves a win.
The Clippers have lost seven in a row as they mix in some youth with rookie Eric Bledsoe starting at point guard with Baron Davis injured. Gordon arrives in town coming off back-to-back 30-point performances, so keeping EJ in check will be key for the Pacers to win.
After the jump, a few links of interest including more on Oden and the steep learning curve facing the Pacers' young power forwards. Also, Tyler Hansbrough appears set to return to action tonight but Darren Collison is likely out.
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Pacers power forwards Josh McRoberts and Tyler Hansbrough growing up fast
Mike Wells reports on the Pacers power forwards and Jim O'Brien softening any criticsm of the young players. Also, Tyler Hansbrough expects to be back tonight by Darren Collison is likely out. -
Ford, Jones get more than they give
T.J. Ford and Dahntay Jones hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless on their off day with a little help from their teammates. -
Greg Oden: 2 non-incident microfracture surgeries - CBSSports.com
Ben Golliver is all over Oden's recent surgery revelation and has all of the pertinent details and quotes in this story. -
Clippers at Indiana - Game Preview - Clips Nation
The Clippers have the worst record in the NBA and a seven game losing streak as they play the Pacers tonight. -
Death by Jumpshot – Follow Up on Pacers-Hawks Recap
Tim Donahue has a nice look at the Pacers' loss to Atlanta which explains why I couldn't get too exercised over the loss. - Clippers-Pacers Preview - Nov. 18, 2010 - NBA - CBSSports.com
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Murphy in limbo as Nets fall
Troy Murphy has fallen out of the playing rotation with the Nets.