Diogu recovery timetable potentially 7-12 months
Saturday, December 12, 2009
By: Jim Eichenhofer, Hornets.com
On Friday, New Orleans free-agent acquisition Ike Diogus season ended before it really ever began. After unsuccessfully trying to return to action, it was finally decided that the 6-foot-9 power forward will undergo microfracture surgery on his left knee. The five-year NBA veteran, who was unable to suit up for a preseason or regular season game with his new team, is now hoping to be able to get back on the basketball court by next summer.
Its about a year-long process, Diogu said of rehabilitation from microfracture surgery, which he will undergo on Tuesday in New York City. But it all depends on the (specifics of the) injury. It could be longer. It could be shorter. Some people can come back from it in seven to eight months. For other people, it might take them longer. The target date for me now is July for me to be able to fully (play), with no restrictions. But everyones body is different. It could be later than that, or it could be sooner.
Diogu will be an unrestricted free agent on July 1, meaning any NBA team will be able to sign him to a contract. After Saturdays open practice at the New Orleans Arena for season ticket holders, the Arizona State product said his preference is to be on the Hornets roster in 2010-11.
I want to be here, Diogu said. But at the same time, I know this is a business. But I will be on someones roster next season.