Richardson is expected to be available for the start of the 2006-07 season.

Golden State Warriors’ guard Jason Richardson underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee this morning, it was announced by Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Mullin. The surgery, which cleaned out debris caused by normal wear and tear, was performed by Dr. Stephen Lombardo at the HealthSouth Surgical Center in Los Angeles.

“We are pleased that the surgery was a success,” said Mullin. “We certainly do not expect this to derail Jason from being ready when the season starts and look forward to him continuing to develop into an All-Star caliber player during the 2006-07 season.”

Richardson, 25, is one of only five players in NBA history to increase his scoring average in each of his first four NBA seasons following his rookie campaign (14.4, 15.6, 18.7, 21.7, 23.2), joining Karl Malone, Stephon Marbury, Billy Cunningham and Jack Twyman.

The Warriors open training camp on Tuesday, October 3 in Oakland.