The Knicks announced Monday that guard J.R. Smith underwent surgery on his left knee that is expected to sideline him for three-to-four months.
Smith underwent two procedures: one to address his patella tendon and an arthroscopic procedure to fix a lateral meniscus tear. The Knicks noted that Smith’s issues were “chronic” and “gradually worsened,” requiring surgical attention
The recovery timeline puts Smith’s availability for training camp, preseason and the 2013-14 season opener in question. Should he return in three months, Smith would be ready to go in the middle of the preseason. Should his recovery stretch to four months, Smith could miss the opening week or two of the regular season
Smith, 27, averaged 18.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists last season, taking home 2013 Sixth Man of the Year honors.
New York should be fairly well covered if Smith’s absences does extend into the season. With Raymond Felton, Pablo Prigioni and Iman Shumpert all back, the Knicks also selected guard Tim Hardaway, Jr. with their first-round pick and agreed to sign forward Metta World Peace on Monday.
Earlier this month, Smith re-signed with the Knicks on a four-year deal worth $24.7 million.
Information from Espn.com and The Associated Press contributed to this report.