Washington Wizards forward Jared Dudley, acquired via trade with the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this month, will be sidelined for three to four months following lower back surgery, the team announced Tuesday night in a statement.
The 30-year-old Dudley had a herniated disk repaired that day and will begin a rehab program immediately.
Wizards president Ernie Grunfeld said in the statement announcing the injury that the team talked to Dudley and his agent, and “were made aware that he played with pain for a significant part of last season due to this injury.”
“After jointly consulting with our team doctors and several specialists, we collectively determined that this proactive approach was the best course of action to have him ready for the upcoming season and to prevent the risk of further injury,” Grunfeld said.
Dudley averaged 7.2 points and 3.1 rebounds in 72 games with Milwaukee last season and missed four games with soreness in his lower back.
The procedure took place in Dallas.
“Although I’m disappointed that I won’t be on the floor with my new teammates for the start of training camp, I’m confident that having this surgery now will allow me to perform at my best and contribute throughout the season,” Dudley said in the statement. “I appreciate the patience and support of the organization and I can assure my teammates and the fans that I will work extremely hard to be on the floor as soon as possible.”
The Wizards obtained Dudley on July 9 in exchange for a protected future second-round pick.
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