Greg Oden reportedly trying to return to the NBA

Greg Oden, who was drafted first overall by Portland in 2007 but whose injuries have waylaid his career, apparently is trying to return to the NBA.

Multiple teams have reportedly shown interest in signing the 7-footer this season to a multiyear deal that would allow him to rehabilitate his most recent knee injury until next fall, according to ESPN.

Oden is a highly talented player with the potential to be a formidable center, but injuries have plagued his professional career.

Oden has had three microfracture surgeries, most recently one on his left knee in February 2012. He has not played in the NBA since December 2009 and was waived by the Trail Blazers in March 2012.

Oden, who was under contract for five seasons with Portland, played only 82 games between 2008-2010. He averaged 9.4 points and 7.3 rebounds.

Oden is currently rehabbing and taking classes at Ohio State, where he helped the Buckeyes reach the national championship game in 2007 (they lost to Florida).

According to ESPN, the Miami Heat are among the teams in hot pursuit of Oden.

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