short Batum interview (Nov 15th)

by #10 on Nov 15, 2009 6:29 PM PST

His shoulder having finally given way, Nicolas Batum is the biggest French absence of the start of the NBA season. While he's unavailable for up to five months, the Blazer's wing was willing to respond to Basket USA's questions to talk about his health and his team's condition.

Right off the bat, how do you feel after your operation?
It's alright... but five months pisses me off. I knew since August that I would need surgery one day or another.

Have you started rehab?
I started around 15 days ago. Three days after the operation because I didn't want to lose time.

It's the second major operation of your career (after having a broken foot 4 years ago). How did you react learning that?
Like I said, it pisses me off. But I have to deal with it, and the important thing is that I'm recovering well.

What do you think of the Blazers' start to the season?
The beginning was difficult with two losses at home but now we're doing well, we're progressing...

What is your opinion of Portland's big signing, Andre Miller?
He's an experienced point guard, which we needed to help Blake at the point. He's a good signing for us.

Do you think that Portland can stop you from going to play with the French national team this summer in Turkey?
I think that it could be difficult. To tell you the truth, I don't know after what happened last summer... We didn't really talk about it with Kevin Pritchard or Nate McMillan. Once I'm back, we'll see.

What time-line have you set for your return?
The doctors told me that I should return around March but I'm targeting the All-Start Break to come back and practice again. We'll have to see how well rehab goes.

Last question, what do you think about Le Mans' season so far?
They're doing well, they have a good team and they played well Friday night. It's really too bad that they didn't qualify for the Euroleague.

Tweet Comment 5 comments | 4 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Thanks for the post

Is Nic in Portland rehabbing or is he back in France?

"Either way we have two phenomenal units. I'm excited to play with either one." - Martell Webster

by lee3022 on Nov 15, 2009 11:06 PM PST reply actions

I've seen him on the bench during home games.

"Ain't nothin' in this world for free."

by Arby on Nov 15, 2009 11:13 PM PST up reply actions

very short answers from the usually well-spoken frenchy….

Bring the bling to Rip City, Natch'

Trade John Canzano!

by richardb on Nov 15, 2009 11:56 PM PST reply actions

I think a shoulder should be easier to recover than a foot

so he’ll have more time to practise his free throw, 3 point and mid range shooting even when still considered injured. I hope he comes back very efficient and ready to play in the playoffs and the world cup.

Too bad he didn’t get to the surgeon right after the Euro cup, he’d be ready 1.5 month earlier.

by chuky on Nov 16, 2009 8:39 AM PST reply actions

I'll be happy to see him with all limbs in working order

Guys, he’s been playing with one arm since close to the middle of last season. He’s going to be a mosnter going forward. Once he gets in shape and has his timing back….Lookout. Next year people outside of our team will really be asking where he came from.

Land Rondo.

"He needs to realize that he can't stop every shot, especially from a smaller and offensively potent player. Get your hands up, make him shoot it over you, but let him shoot every once in a while. They score a little but you stay in the game a lot. And when you stay in the game...smashy smashy!" Dave on Greg Oden

by loyal_blazer on Nov 16, 2009 9:19 AM PST reply actions