Doctors Say O’Bannon’s Knee Could Prove Troublesome

Doctors at the NBA’s pre-draft camp in Chicago have noted the possibility of future problems with Ed O’Bannon’s surgically repaired left knee.

O’Bannon, who led UCLA to the NCAA title in April, injured the knee as a freshman in 1990 and underwent surgery. He sat out a year and, after being used sparingly as a redshirt freshman, played a full schedule as a sophomore, junior and senior.

Draft prospects receive medical examinations at the camp and potential problems are “flagged.” O’Bannon had been expected to be drafted among the top 10 selections.

“I don’t know what that means,” said John Gabriel, Orlando Magic personnel director. “Look at all the players who have been flagged who have turned out OK, and he’s played on it for three years.”

Gabriel said he thought O’Bannon would still be picked by one of the 13 lottery teams.

However, a New Jersey official said he didn’t know if O’Bannon would be invited to try out, in view of his medical history. The Nets have the No. 9 pick.