On the very same day the New York Knicks added Metta World Peace to their roster, the lost guard J.R. Smith.
Smith, who was dealing with two chronic knee injuries, can now possibly the first two weeks of the regular season or beyond that.
The New York Post is reporting that just four days after announcing his new four-year, $24.7 million contract extension, Smith underwent surgery yesterday in New York to repair a patellar tendon and a torn meniscus, both in his left knee, leaving him sidelined for three to four months.
The Knicks announced that Smith certainly wouldn't be ready for Day 1 of training camp in early October and could miss the season opener later that month.
The team knew about the issue when the season ended and were aware that Smith would need surgery. A source said teams that inquired about Smith were also made aware of his impending surgery, but the Knicks say they had no major qualms about offering him a four-year deal because they considered it below market value and the maximum they were allowed to offer under Early Bird Rights.
The 27-year-old shooting guard averaged 18.1 points per game this season, finishing second on the Knicks in scoring behind forward Carmelo Anthony. He played an integral role in the Knicks' regular-season success but struggled mightily in the playoffs, making just 33 percent of his field goal attempts.
Related Articles:
Atlanta Hawk Rumors: Jeff Teague Says He'll Be Happy To Remain With The Hawks After Wanting Out
