I've seen some Pistons' fans talk about signing Oden, but I've always been skeptical.

I've imagined that he was essentially finished, because of his knee injuries.

However, in the last few days a huge controversy has started up in Portland, concerning the manner in which Oden was treated by the Blazer medical staff. A kinesiologist who'd allegedly analyzed not only Oden, but all of the Blazers, has come out with an interesting article which essentially claims that Oden's injuries were not only predictable, but that they could be managed enough to get him back on the court. The entire episode and the claims and responses are too complex to get into here, but an article on the SB Nation companion Blazers' blog, the Blazersedge, does an excellent job of detailing the issues related to this matter.

The bottom line is that the kinesiologist argues that both Oden and Roy could probably resume their careers, given proper analysis and treatment. Whether that is true, I have no idea. It is an intriguing situation, however. And considering the potential benefit, it may well be worth it to snatch Oden off the scrap heap, take the advice and use the expertise of the kinesiologist and try to resurrect the career of a guy who could really make a difference, if he was healthy.

How that could be accomplished - off waivers, as a free agent signing, etc. - I'm not sure of, but the kinesiologist makes a strong argument that all hope is not lost for Oden. And rebuilding teams like Detroit should be willing to take risks where the rewards could be so large.