The Miami Heat are a great fit for Greg Oden's latest return

There was a time when Greg Oden was expected to be the face of a franchise.

Now, Miami fans will probably be appreciative if he even plays.

Injury issues cost the first overall selection of the 2007 draft his shot at NBA superstardom, but after countless knee surgeries, he's still giving it a go.

Considering he's only been able to play in 82 total games in six seasons, it would have been really easy for Oden to throw in the towel at some point, say after the sixth surgery, but he hasn't; that has to count for something.

Realistically, Miami is a great spot for Oden to approach his first action since the 2009-10 season, as opposed to a developing team that would expect consistent production from the center.

As Mark Titus from Grantland pointed out, the Heat don't need him. They have won two straight titles without Oden, or any actual center for that matter. Any production they get from him will basically be a bonus, as they'll be favored to win a third title with or without him in the lineup.

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Thus, Miami can afford to ease Oden into action, which may work to greatly mollify his comeback move. They can use him in certain situations, mainly against teams with some size, while largely keeping him fresh for the playoff run, when they may really need the center’s services.

Miami will be paying Oden the minimum, just over $1 million, with a player option for the 2014-15 season. So, it’s not like they’re deeply committed to him financially either. For the Heat organization, it’s a low-risk move that has the potential to pay big dividends.

A healthy Oden would certainly help the Heat.

Although they were able to take home the title, postseason struggles against deep interior teams like Indiana and San Antonio demonstrated a need further solidification at the center spot.

When Oden was able to play he was productive, averaging 16.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per 36 minutes of action. 

While he likely won’t be putting those numbers up nightly, if he plays up to even half of his potential, he will help to greatly round out the Heat’s roster.

While there will undoubtedly be media attention surrounding his return, the presence of other high-profile players will help take some of the pressure off of him. 

Rather than re-acclimating on a smaller stage where his inevitable struggles could become the center of attention,  Oden’s  comeback attempt will share the spotlight with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh; guys who tend to attract most of the media attention. 

Oden will certainly benefit from easing back into action, surrounded by superstars, who can help to take the pressure off of him, both on and off the court. 

Expectations are low for the once expected all-star, but he appears to be in a great situation to succeed. 

A healthy Oden holding down the center spot on an already robust Heat roster has to be a scary thought for the league at large.