As with the announcement of his retirement, the announcement of Brandon Roy’s return has become big news for the NBA. Roy is already garnering interest from the Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves. There were also whispers about the Miami Heat but that’s probably less likely.
The biggest question is at what level will Roy be able to play? The two-time All-Star was pushed by his doctors to retire last year due to chronic knee injuries. Since then he’s undergone the platelet rich plasma therapy procedure popularized by Kobe Bryant and has also been working diligently in the gym. The procedure has been proven to work for Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and baseball star Alex Rodriguez. Whether or not it will significantly help Roy is yet to be seen but many teams are willing to take a chance using their full-mid level exception to sign him. The Warriors general manager Bob Myers is Roy’s former agent and has expressed strong interest in adding him to the roster. Pacers executive Kevin Pritchard was the Blazers GM and made the draft day deal for Roy in 2006. The two have a very good relationship and Pritchard can play an important part in his recruitment. The Timberwolves are said to be willing to offer Roy a two-year contract.
As of now Roy hasn’t narrowed down his choices but a close eye will be kept on him. He had his best statistical season in 2008-09, when he averaged 22.6 points – on 48-percent shooting, 5.1 assists and 4.7 rebounds and averaged 19 points in his overall five seasons with the Blazers.
Shaina (@Shay_Marie)
