The Trail Blazers took the first steps Monday toward deciding the future of forward Darius Miles by asking the NBA to appoint an independent doctor to determine whether Miles' right knee injuries are career-ending.
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By filing a request for an independent doctor, the Blazers were following the criteria outlined in the league's collective bargaining agreement in determining a career-ending injury.
"We've started an evaluation process regarding whether Darius has a career-ending injury," Blazers general manager Kevin Pritchard said. "This will likely take some time, but my guess is this will be resolved by the end of the season."
Once the NBA and the players association determines the doctor to perform the evaluation, Miles will fly to New York for the examination, probably by the end of March. Typically, the doctor makes a determination within a few days after the exam. Miles would not be able to appeal the decision, but he could seek a contract with another team.
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In December of this season, Miles proclaimed himself "90 percent healthy" and "certain" he would play this season when the Blazers began what they called a "reintegration" of Miles to the team, which included Miles participating in drills during practices. Prior to that, Miles never took part in team functions as he worked with a private trainer, Robin Pound, who was hired by the team.
The reintegration didn't last long. Miles eventually developed problems with his Achilles' tendon, preventing him from resuming drills. It is unknown whether the recent Achilles problems have affected Miles' comeback aspirations.
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