My expectations for Oden are 14-16ppg, 10-12rpg and All-League defense while leading Portland in a blaze of glory as one of the West's better teams.
You expect Oden to have better stats in the pros than his one year in college? he was 15 and 9 in college. And that was before the knee injury and not playing for a year. I just dont see it.
I'll round up if you don't mind mind to 16 and 10 since he went for 15.7 and 9.6.
But yes sir I do. He played only 29mpg in college, he'll play more in the pros and he'll very likely get more touches than he did in college (it was weird how few touches and post ups he got in college despite clearly being skilled enough, mostly due to his early season wrist injury no doubt). His defense will there from the word GO.
Aldridge will be the biggest factor in Oden's numbers. He's a weak rebounder now, if he gets better it might be tough for Oden to get double figures. Aldridge is also a much improved post scorer but I agree with
BudweiserCeltic that Oden gets around 10 shots which he'll likely hit a good clip.
Greg Oden was doing brilliantly in workouts against NBA players last summer and improving at a very fast pace. He's meant to be doing well already and I think we'll hear more and more positive news about his play over the next few months.
Don't underestimate Przybilla and Aldridge either. Joel is a legit 7-1 280lbs who's tough and plays physical. He'll be working over Oden every day in practice, because of him Oden will get used to the large size and physical play of NBA competition. Aldridge meanwhile is one of the most talented offensive bigs in the league who again will be a great practice companion for Oden.
From the first moment he steps onto an NBA court he'll be one of the best interior defenders in the league and an above average rebounder. Think quickly the number of centers that can lay claim to that. Oden is going to get large minutes from day one because he's going to be able to contribute without ever taking a shot. Now add the fact he's a skilled and intelligent big man and you have a very effective center. Those guys adapt quick. It's going to be fun to watch, I'm looking forward to it.