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Chris Andersen, Hornets
No, you haven't seen the 6-10 forward's name in a box score in a while. He's been suspended the past two years after a serious violation of the league's substance abuse policy in January 2006. But he can apply for reinstatement, beginning today.

After he applies, the league and the players' association have to jointly agree that he's ready to return.

"He's cautiously optimistic, but nervous," his agent, Steven Heumann, said by telephone Friday.

"He has done an exceptional job the last two years," Heumann added. "He put himself, at his own expense, into rehab. He's drug-free. He's been tested weekly, and we have the results. He's done a tremendous amount of community service. He's kept himself financially afloat . . . he lives a clean and generous and public life, more so than most."

If Andersen is reinstated, the Hornets would have 30 days to re-sign him. They are keeping mum on their intentions, but word is they're going to take a pass. That would make Andersen an unrestricted free agent, able to sign with anyone for the pro-rated veterans' average salary.

You never know with someone with a substance problem. Every day is a potential disaster waiting to happen. But Andersen, 29, would bring absolutely no risk to the Sixers. If he stays clean, he's a big man with freakish athletic ability (his nickname wasn't "Birdman" for nothing). If he relapses, you cut ties with no obligation.

Contract status: None. If signed, would get prorated veterans' average salary.

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