Nets center Brook Lopez is out for the season with a broken foot, an NBA source tells Gary Tanguay of CSNNE.com (on Twitter). Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News (on Twitter) has confirmed the news.
The Nets could theoretically apply for the Disabled Player Exception, which would be worth the mid-level exception if they are approved. DPEs aren’t often used, but the Nets are the most bullish spenders in the league and it’s certainly conceivable that they could tack on to their bloated payroll. At the same token, owner Mikhail Prokhorov reportedly told his front office before the start of his season that he would not add to their payroll, even in the event of an injury. If they do go in that direction, they would be more likely to add a big man via trade than a free agent signing given the lack of quality available talent.
Foot troubles are nothing new for the center, who played in just five games in 2011/12 thanks to his broken right foot, followed by an ankle injury. While the Nets have struggled so far this season, Lopez has been a bright spot, averaging 20.7 PPG and 6.0 RPG off of 56.3% shooting.
The injury to Lopez is a tough blow for the Nets, who are already reeling at 9-17. The Celtics could be a major benefactor, however, as they currently lead the division with a 12-15 mark.
Retire my friend…..
too bad.
I don’t know which team is more screwed this year – the Nets or the Knicks