ESPN reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — More than four months after Andrew Bynum injured his left knee, it’s been decided the Los Angeles Lakers center will undergo arthroscopic surgery.

The Lakers made the announcement Sunday, saying Dr. David Altchek will perform the procedure in New York on Wednesday — the same day Bynum’s team entertains San Antonio or New Orleans to begin the Western Conference finals.

An estimated timetable for Bynum’s return will be provided following the surgery.

“I just hope for the best for him,” teammate Luke Walton said following a light practice Sunday. “He was a huge part of our success early on and he’s going to be a huge part of our future.”

The Lakers said the procedure will entail a cleanup of some rough spots and fraying on the underside of Bynum’s kneecap.

It’s a shame that Bynum’s “breakout year” had to end this way, as the promising seven-footer was playing as well as any young center in the league not named Dwight Howard before his injury. Number 17’s double-double averages of 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds are remarkable for a 20-year-old looking to make his mark in the NBA, but those don’t even necessarily tell you the rapid improvements he continued to make week-by-week.

Throughout his final six games of the season, all within the first two weeks of January, Bynum took his game to a whole ‘nother level. Holding averages of 17.3 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game throughout that stint, the young center was even receiving All-Star consideration.

It’s a shame that his Al Jefferson-esque progression had to come to a definitive halt just two and a half months into his third professional season. Here’s to hoping that Bynum undergoes a successful surgery, recovery process, and comeback to the court next season.

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Posted By: Dustin Chapman

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