The Channing Frye Show is back
As published on OregonLive.com
JOE FREEMAN
The Oregonian Staff
TUALATIN -- Channing Frye returned to Trail Blazers practice Tuesday, roughly three weeks ahead of his projected return date, and you know what that means: The Northwest-loving, glass-half-full, down-to-earth personality of this revitalized franchise was back.
Post-practice interviews turned into Night at the Improv.
On his speedy recovery from Sept. 8 surgery to remove bone spurs from his left ankle: "There's been a lot of prayers and a lot of milk," Frye said, laughing. "Hopefully I can get a milk contract."
On when he might be game-ready: "I'd say tomorrow. I might die in the first five minutes, but I'm just going to continue to work on my conditioning. I think that's the biggest thing. Like coach says, 'I have a little money in the bank and I'm taking a deposit out.' "
But in the midst of all the humor, Frye revealed a hint of his serious side, dissecting opinions on a host of issues, including the fact that this season, his fourth in the NBA, might be his most important. It's the last year of his rookie contract and Frye has made no secret that he loves living in Portland and longs to be a part of the Blazers' long-term future.
"I think that's No. 1," Frye said. "It's probably not the right thing to say, but I really want to stay here. And I think at the end of the year it's going to be evaluated. I don't think anyone on this team is about numbers, it's about your value to this team and how you're going to be able to fit into this program for the next few years. So that's a unique position. I'm focused on (being) the best player I can be and (figuring out) how I'm going to fit in here."
Frye -- who was jerked in and out of the starting lineup, and sometimes out of the playing rotation altogether -- says he feels more comfortable entering his second season with the Blazers. He's a reserve power forward behind starter LaMarcus Aldridge, a role he embraces, and figures to be an integral part of a second unit that could be an exciting, high-scoring group.
Although his ankle surgery was a setback, Frye said his offseason regimen should help him get back in shape quickly. He spent much of the offseason working on his outside jump shot and working out at the Blazers' practice facility in Tualatin -- so much so that he earned the team's most outstanding worker award, given to the player who demonstrates the best offseason work ethic in Portland.
Much of the extra work focused on three-point shooting. Already a standout mid-range shooter -- remember that 20-point outburst in Denver last season when Aldridge was hurt? -- Frye has added a three-point shot to his offensive repertoire.
In addition to his on-again, off-again playing time last season, Frye also routinely played out of position at center because of Greg Oden's injury. And while Frye had his standout moments -- he averaged 16.2 points and 10.2 rebounds in the final five games of the season as a substitute starter for Joel Przybilla -- Frye is more suited for his role this season.
But the question remains: With so many offensive weapons and only so many shots to go around on the second unit, will Frye get many opportunities to flash that newfound three-pointer? That's irrelevant, Frye said. Although it's a contract season, he refuses to dwell on individual statistics. Like seemingly everyone on this team, Frye said he believes his value will be measured in how many games the Blazers win.
"It really comes down to . . . one of two things," Frye said. "I can either come out here (and) be a jerk and be selfish and think about myself and ruin everything that everyone's worked on. Or I can trust in this program and everyone here and myself and just be a great team player. And I'm not trying to be cliche, but you figure the farther we get the better everyone looks. So the better we are, even if I have to sacrifice a few minutes, teams are going to see that. I'm able to put my pride to the side and fit in and do what's best for this team and not just for me."
Frye participated in all aspects of practice Tuesday and said his ankle was 95 percent healthy. His conditioning is another story. He estimates he's at 75 percent game shape and said it should take approximately two weeks for him to return to normal.
That said, if coach Nate McMillan gives the OK, Frye would like to play between 10 and 15 minutes in the Blazers' exhibition game Monday night at Sacramento. Either way, Frye is three weeks ahead of his projected return date and that much closer to deciding his future.
"We worked out all the time (in the offseason) when I first got back," Oden said. "It was good to get him back out here. He's going to bring a lot to this team."
October 15th, 2008 - 08:41
Hooray!!
Glad to hear of the speedy recovery, Channing. I’m still hoping to see you on the court Oct. 28th.
P.S. – If you haven’t recently, check out the stuff going on at my spot:
http://nbaonthebrain.blogspot.com/2008/09/nba-dramatique-introduction.html
October 15th, 2008 - 08:45
Hi Channing! Those who don’t appreciate your game might question where to place you on the court. Having watched you in Pac 10 play as well as last season, it is obvious that you will continue to excel and delight at the 3, 4 or 5. Of course you have the mad skills!
I know that you are one of our most versatile players, so don’t be shy with shooting the rock and I expect to see you play a little 3, ok? Good job rehabbing that ankle. What a blessing to have that surgery behind you and now you can go out and have fun and contribute to the great Blazer legacy. Thank you for being such a good role model to the rookies and kids. Mr. Portland is back!!!!!!! Go Blazers!
October 15th, 2008 - 09:03
Good to see you back in the mix Channing, I can’t believe how far ahead of the recovery curve you are! You’re new 3 point shot is going to be crucial to spreading the defense this year and creating space with Martell out, can’t wait to see you take the court.
October 15th, 2008 - 09:16
Mr Frye,
I just finished reading the above article, and I can’t help feeling how lucky Portland is to have you and how lucky you are to have found your way here.
Also, to have discovered the truth behind the old adage, “A rich man is he who knows he has enough.”, at such a young age is uncommon in our world. I congratulate you.
Your spirit and your ability to just be happy with where you are at is an attitude that will help you and our team grow. Again I congratulate you.
Combine that with the skill set and work ethic you possess, barring injury, …
I see a long beautiful friendship ahead between you and our community. I hope you, someday, raise a family here.
Thanks for what you have done and what you will do.
Good on you,
al
October 15th, 2008 - 10:27
Great to hear The Channing Frye Show is back!!! Should be a great week for you guys to get some work in. Keep taking it easy on that ankle though, it’ll be a long season. October 28th couldn’t come soon enough.
October 15th, 2008 - 11:09
Welcome back, Channing! The Blazers definitely needed the return of the Buffet of Goodness.
October 15th, 2008 - 14:27
Mr. Frye,
You’re the most recognizable Channing since Stockard Channing. Have you ever considered going out with her? Joining the Jaguar Club would make the Blazers more popular with fans over 50.
October 15th, 2008 - 15:17
Channing,
Good to hear you made it back so soon. I’m looking forward to maybe seeing some 3 point bombs on LA on the 28th.
Cheers!
October 15th, 2008 - 22:18
Channing, please take it slow. I know you want to push and get back into the mix, but if you come back too fast, then you could hurt yourself again. It is a long season and there is plenty of time for you to get well. When you are well, then you’ll feel better, play better and dominate. Relax.
October 16th, 2008 - 11:42
Congrats! The Blazers will keep an eye, they don’t seem like the type of team that would bring you back if you were not ready. It would be tuff to play if you we’re near 100% Can’t wait to see you on the court in 45!!
October 16th, 2008 - 16:33
I welcome you back on the Blazers court. I am glad to see you returned exceeding even your own lofty expectations. I do caution you however, to listen to your body. I know you’re in good hands (medically speaking) but still, I’d hate ot see you suffer a more serious injury due to overuse on a non-fully healed injury.
I hope to see some of your newfound 3-ball skills with you playing some minutes at the SF spot while Martell is out of action. best wishes for a successful season.
October 17th, 2008 - 08:23
al bailey’s comments above make me want to cry. Seriously, what a beautiful post. Wish I had written it. Channing, have a serene weekend because it all starts up next week (for you)! Congratulations on your fabulous recovery. All the best to you and your team mates. You guys are my heros.
October 17th, 2008 - 11:47
Hey Channing big fan man just for the music suggestion check out this local guy twisted insane yeah his name is twisted insane he will blow your mind trust me
October 17th, 2008 - 13:14
Channing, all night last night NBA TV was flashing a message on the bottom of the screen saying you are out 8-10 weeks with your ankle. Please tell me this isn’t true! Hopefully they just haven’t received the update that you are back..
October 23rd, 2008 - 13:37
Not to be corny, but you have one of the best attitudes of any pro athlete I’ve come across. Most importantly: WITHOUT all the horrible cliches. I’ve been saying all off-season that WINNING games will cure any playing minute-itis. Also, the season is long and unfortunately, injuries do occur. I think there will be enough time to go around.
November 10th, 2008 - 23:12
Hi, C Frye,
You are a surprisingly good writer. At least you have something to fall back on… I mean…. other than the millions of dollars you make.
Go Blazers!