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During a recent visit, Nerlens Noel learned from the Cleveland Cavaliers' team doctor that "everything was perfect" in his injured left knee, reports Kyle Tucker of the Courier-Journal. Further, Chad Ford of ESPN says he's "hearing [the] same" regarding Noel's knee.
Noel tore the ACL in his knee on February 12th, 2013, clouding the NBA future of the center once universally regarded as the top prospect in the 2013 NBA Draft. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated reported Wednesday that the Cavaliers, who own the top overall pick, may not select Noel. As such, he could fall to the Orlando Magic, who own the second overall pick.
Prospect profile: Nerlens Noel
Tyler Lashbrook profiles the Kentucky big man and assesses his fit with Orlando.
Even if Noel is on course for a full recovery, he will not be ready for opening night of the 2013/14 season in October. Noel tells Tucker that he'll be ready by November or December.
Noel averaged 10.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 2.1 steals, and 4.4 blocks in his lone season at Kentucky. His potential as a game-changing defensive force at the rim makes him an enticing prospect.
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