Erick Blasco's 2008-2009 Preseason Rookie Report

Since NBA rookies have never played a meaningful game against the supreme competition of the league, it’s always uneasy treading when asked to predict how a rookie will perform. However, this season’s particular rookie class is packed with talented youngsters who will be asked to perform significant roles for their teams. Let’s examine what we can expect from the best of this year’s rookie crop. Greg Oden—Portland Trail Blazers Despite being drafted in 2007, this season will be Oden’s rookie campaign. After needing microfracture surgery last offseason to heal his right knee, Oden was forced to miss the entire 2007-08 season while recuperating. However, Oden is much more advanced than every other rookie this year. For starters, his body is much more NBA-ready than any other first year player‘s. Already blessed with massive shoulders and tremendous upper-body strength, Oden had the opportunity last year to get involved with Portland’s ... (link)