Thunder guard Andre Roberson underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Tuesday, Royce Young of ESPN tweets.
The surgery was necessitated by swelling associated with his rehab from a ruptured patella, Young adds, though the patella itself is healing well.
The procedure was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthapedic Clinic in Los Angeles. He remains on pace to return for the start of next season, according to a team press release.
Roberson was a key component in the Thunder’s defensive scheme and was sorely missed when he ruptured the patella at the Pistons’ new Little Caesars Arena on January 27th. He underwent surgery to repair the patella the following day.
Oklahoma City’s defensive rating was fifth in the NBA at 103.1 with a healthy Roberson and dropped all the way to 15th (107) in 33 games without him.
Roberson is signed through the next two seasons. He’ll make $10MM next season and $10.74MM in 2019/20.
While it’s still a long way from training camp, Roberson’s latest surgery might play into Oklahoma City’s approach this offseason. Another defensive option along the perimeter could certainly be on the wish list if there are concerns about Roberson’s long-term recovery.