Emeka Okafor likely to sit out rest of season

The center hasn't played this season, will attempt to sign with a new team this summer.

Center Emeka Okafor, who missed all of last season with a herniated disc in his neck, is strongly considering sitting out the rest of this season, according to a report from ESPN's Marc Stein. Instead of rushing back from the injury, it is likely Okafor won't make himself available via free agency until the summer. He will use the time for strength and conditioning, working toward a healthy return to the court.

It's disheartening news for several teams who were reported to have interest in the veteran big man. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks were all rumored to be willing to sign the 32-year-old for additional size and rim protection.

Okafor hasn't played since the 2012-13 season, when he averaged 9.7 points and 8.8 rebounds per game for the Washington Wizards. He missed the following year with the neck injury and was traded to the Phoenix Suns with his expiring contract for Marcin Gortat. Okafor has career averages of 12.3 points, 9.9 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game in his nine seasons in the NBA.

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