Two years has passed since former No. 3 overall pick O.J. Mayo was banned from the league for violating the NBA's anti-drug program. He has served out his two-year suspension, hence he is now eligible to return.
According to NBA insider Keith Smith, the 30-year-old is currently rejecting several offers to play abroad, in the hopes of making a comeback in the NBA.
Source: OJ Mayo has had offers from overseas clubs, but is holding off as he hopes to get back to the NBA. He worked out with NBA players throughout August and early September and looks to be in good shape per reports. Mayo could go to NBAGL as a means of working his way to NBA.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) October 7, 2018
Reports have surfaced saying NBA scouts are pleased with Mayo's form following his extended absence from the league. However, no NBA teams have made offers, which leaves Mayo with a very small window to find a team.
As reported by Smith, Mayo could explore the possibility of playing in the NBA's G League in an attempt to up his stock. This could prove to be a good move for the former Memphis Grizzlies standout, because he'd be able to showcase his value close to home.
The Minnesota Timberwolves drafted Mayo No. 3 overall in 2008, but sent him over to the Memphis Grizzlies in a draft-day trade. After four up-and-down years in Memphis, Mayo signed with the Dallas Mavericks on a one-year deal. He went on to play three seasons for the Milwaukee Bucks. The NBA suspended him in the summer of 2016.
O.J. Mayo boasts career averages of 13.8 points on 42.9% shooting, 1.6 three-pointers, 3.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.1 turnovers in 30.9 minutes per contest. If Mayo can prove he's not a distraction, plenty of NBA teams would be happy to have him. He'll continue to make his case as the NBA season approaches. Even if he isn't on a roster by the season opener, team's will surely reach out to him. Mayo still has a few years of good basketball left. All he needs is another shot. The team that gives him one could strike gold. Even if they don't, sometimes it's worth the risk.
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