Oden expects to become free agent after season

Barring the unexpected, former No. 1 NBA draft pick Greg Oden will become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.

Oden's agent, Mike Conley Sr., told The Indianapolis Star on Wednesday it is "unlikely" the 7-foot center will sign an extension by Monday's deadline, which would make him a restricted free agent at the end of the season but still allow Portland to match any offers he receives.

The No. 1 pick in 2007 after one season at Ohio State, Oden has played just 82 games due to various injuries and isn't ready to start this season.

"Obviously on the team side, they have a lot of question marks on his health. On his side of it, as far as him negotiating for the most money possible, he's not in the best bargaining position," Conley said. "It's not the best opportunity for him at this point. If they want to give him the money we think he's worth, he'll sign."

Oden was playing fairly well last year when he was healthy, averaging 11.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocked shots in 24 minutes.