LAS VEGAS -- Memphis Grizzlies star Mike Conley wasn't able to fully participate in Team USA training camp this week as he continues to recover from heel surgery last January. But he says he's feeling good and still on course to be ready by training camp in September.
"I'm doing really well. I wish I could've participated in contact stuff," Conley said. "I think I could, but we're being cautious and allowing me to get a full summer of rehab. I should be ready to go by training camp -- I expect to be ready."
The point guard played only 12 games last season due to Achilles and heel issues, and his injury was a key factor in the team firing coach David Fizdale and the team missing the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
Conley hasn't been cleared for 5-on-5 work yet but is doing halfcourt work and taking some contact.
"With anything dealing with Achilles, it takes time and you got to be patient to deal with it," Conley said. "Right now, it's all starting to come together. I'm so used to making a move and I expect pain. I got used to pain with some of the moves. Now I make the moves and there's nothing there, so that's exciting."
Conley said he's been excited by the Grizzlies' offseason, which included signing Kyle Anderson away from the San Antonio Spurs, trading for guard Garrett Temple and drafting Jaren Jackson Jr. with the No. 4 overall pick.
"I've been very impressed with our offseason -- it's one of the better ones I've been a part of," Conley said. "We made moves that might seem small, but for us they're huge. Bringing in some draft picks that can help us right away, we're making the right moves."