Saturday, June 16, 2012

Brandon Roy Will Attempt An NBA Comeback Next Season

After months of speculation regarding his future in basketball, it appears Brandon Roy is ready to come out of early retirement and will attempt to make an NBA comeback next season.

While answering questions from fans on a friend's (Will Conroy) Twitter account, Roy said that he is now training daily and is preparing for a return to the hardwood next season.

“Lord willing, I will play again soon,” Roy said in a series of tweets. “Yes, I’m preparing for a comeback. I’m training daily. I’m preparing for a return next year. I appreciate the love. Hopefully I’ll be back on the floor soon. Health is good.”

Roy has said on several occasions in recent months that he would like to return to basketball after he abruptly retired from the Portland Trail Blazers prior to the season due to concerns over his knees being unable to handle the condensed schedule.

The former three-time All Star traveled to Los Angeles earlier this month and reportedly underwent a procedure on his knees similar to the one Kobe Bryant had done in Germany last year.

"Tuesday was the first of a series of treatment Roy's going through. He's doing something similar to the treatment Kobe Bryant had on his right knee. It can only help," said a source close to Roy.

Peter Vecsey of the New York Post reported last month that Roy would be interested in playing for the Los Angeles Lakers should be decide to come out of retirement.

He also mentioned the Golden State Warriors as a potential destination as Roy's former agent, Bob Myers, is currently the general manager there.

When a fan asked Roy if a return to Portland would be a possibility, the guard had this to say:

“I wish, but due to the NBA rules I cannot play in Portland until 2014-2015,” Roy tweeted. “I’m looking to return sooner. Thanks for your support. I’m fortunate to have played for such a great fan base. No matter where I play, Portland will always have a special place in my heart.”

If Roy, who will be 28 by the time next season starts, is healthy and teams feel like his knee troubles are a thing of the past, there definitely won't be a lack of interest in the talented guard when he officially announces his return.

When healthy, Roy has proven he is capable of scoring 20+ points a night and being a solid contributor to a contending franchise.

While it is probably unlikely he will able to return with the same level of athleticism that made him a three-time All Star, Roy should still have enough left in the tank to be a quality second or third scoring option on a decent team as long as his minutes are carefully monitored.

I think the Phoenix Suns would be a great fit for Roy to consider when he returns, as both Steve Nash and Grant Hill have said that the team's medical staff is top notch and a major reason as to why they are in such great shape despite their ages.

Which team do you think would be the best fit for Roy? Do you think he will be able to stay healthy and on the court if returns? Share your thoughts below in the comments section.

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