In addition to the teams mentioned in that report, the Heat and the Mavericks have both expressed interest. Oden previously stated that he was taking the entire 2012-2013 season off to get healthy, but depending on where he’s at in his rehab its possible Ainge might try to bring him in as a contributor this year. Either way, the biggest obstacle to the Celtics signing Oden would be money: even though he’s had three microfracture surgeries, someone is sure to offer Oden more money than the Celtics can. All the more reason for Ainge to try and get this done now, before teams have more cap room and summer workouts raise Oden’s price tag even further. Even if Oden can’t contribute this season, he could be an interesting option for the C’s going forward if the price is right.

Update: Ainge downplayed the Celtics’ interest in Oden this afternoon in an interview with WEEI, saying that they’re monitoring Oden “like all the NBA team are” but haven’t attempted to sign him.