The Miami Heat are excited over what they hope will prove to be unlimited returns on their recent investment in Greg Oden.

Though Oden has not played in an NBA game since 2009 and has undergone three microfracture surgeries in his career, the Heat moved last month to sign the 25-year-old former top pick to a two-year deal.

“After many months of discussion, evaluations and speaking with Greg, we felt it was a perfect time for him to make his comeback and re-enter the NBA,” team president Pat Riley said in a statement. “It’s a great challenge for him. We know all about his past injuries, but we feel that there is a huge upside and the possibility of him helping us, that’s why we took the risk. We will continue his program and then we will tackle basketball issues after that.”

Among all those who have seen Oden work out thus far, the assessment has been the same---he looks good, is in even better shape, and clearly has put in the time and work to solidify his return.

Playing in an Eastern Conference that includes top big men like Joakim Noah and Roy Hibbert, the Heat have long been intrigued by the seven-foot, 285-pounder and his potential to match up inside with those and other post players.