Al Jefferson will be out approximately six weeks after suffering a tear in the lateral meniscus of his right knee, the Hornets announced (all Twitter links). The center will undergo arthroscopic surgery Thursday, according to the team.
Jefferson, 30, is in the final year of his contract with the Hornets. Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer wrote earlier this month that trading Jefferson for something that would fit both short-term and long-term would be challenging for the Hornets because he is making $13.5MM this season. Bonnell added that Jefferson’s future with the Hornets beyond this season is likely based on his salary expectations. That means more for the Hornets than it normally would because they are looking to re-sign Nicolas Batum and are not interested in paying the luxury tax, per Bonnell.
Jefferson had most recently been coming off the bench for the Hornets in an effort to get into better game shape after missing 11 games due to a calf injury and a suspension. Jefferson, who is in his 11th season, is averaging 12.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.