Lakers' Bynum to get another medical opinion
Though it was expected the 20-year-old center wouldn't return for the playoffs, the Lakers are now concerned his recovery could extend into the summer or beyond.
By Steve Springer, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
3:49 PM PDT, May 5, 2008
Lakers center Andrew Bynum, his January knee injury still preventing him from returning to the court, will seek a second medical opinion, the Lakers said today. He will see Dr. Steven Gecha on Wednesday in Princeton, N.J. While it had been expected that Bynum, 20, would not be back for this postseason, this decision would appear to not only cement that scenario but it also creates concern that Bynum's recovery could extend into the summer or beyond.
Bynum injured his left knee on Jan. 13, suffering a bone bruise and briefly dislocated kneecap. The healing process has been overseen by Lakers doctors and New York knee specialist David Altchek. Bynum has yet to engage in a full practice. It is still difficult for him to put the full weight of his 7-foot, 285-pound frame on both legs and one-on-one drills have caused swelling in the injured knee.
He has one year left on his contract, after which he'll be a restricted free agent. The Lakers this summer could offer Bynum a five-year extension for up to $80 million on top of the remaining year of his contract. If his upcoming exam reveals new complications, however, that extension could be put on hold.
http://www.latimes.com/sports/basketball/nba/lakers/la-sp-lakers6-2008may06,0,5804153.story
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