Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe underwent successful arthroscopic surgery involving meniscus cartilage in his right knee, the team announced Friday.
Eric Bledsoe injury: Suns guard hopes for 2nd half return after knee surgery
The dynamic guard could return for the stretch run and help the Suns with a playoff push.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Bledsoe hopes to return to the court at some point during the second half of the season, which could coincide with a playoff push for Phoenix.
Bledsoe had been sidelined with a knee issue since Dec. 30 before it was revealed Thursday that surgery was necessary. The fact that the injury isn’t definitely a season-ender is good news for the Suns, but it’s still a huge blow to a team that has been the surprise of the NBA this year.
Bledsoe has blossomed into a star upon his arrival in Phoenix after spending his first few years in the league primarily as Chris Paul's backup with the Los Angeles Clippers. Before going down with the injury, Bledsoe was averaging 18.0 points, 5.8 assists and 4.3 rebounds while shooting 48.6 percent from the field.
Along with backcourt mate Goran Dragic, Bledsoe helped lead the Suns to a 19-11 record before being forced out of the lineup due to the injury. Phoenix is 2-2 in the last four games without Bledsoe and will try to stay afloat as the 24-year-old rehabs and attempts to return this season.
This injury could also have an effect on the next contract for Bledsoe, who’s a restricted free agent in the summer. A max contract was very much in play for Bledsoe, and while it still may be, this injury could cast some doubt on his future. This is especially possible considering it’s the second time in just over three years he has undergone surgery on the meniscus in his right knee.
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