Blake Griffin was ruled out of the Olympics after suffering a knee injury.
Griffin has been diagnosed with a meniscus tear of his left knee, and will have to undergo arthroscopic surgery next week, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Times, citing NBA executives, said Griffin is expected to miss eight weeks but should be okay for the start of the Los Angeles Clippers training camp.
"We're relieved that this does not affect Blake's ability to be ready in time for training camp," Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro said.
"Missing out on the Olympic experience will be tough for him to take. I know how dedicated he was to doing that.
"We're glad we can get this fixed now and take advantage of the available time for him to fully recover."
"Clippers forward Blake Griffin experienced some left knee discomfort after completing Wednesday's practice as a member of Team USA in Las Vegas," Clippers said in a statement.
"He will travel to Los Angeles today and will not be available for Team USA's game Thursday night in Las Vegas versus the Dominican Republic.
"Upon arrival in Los Angeles, Griffin will undergo an MRI and be examined by the Clippers' medical staff. On Sunday, he will also be examined by Dr. Neal El Attrache of the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic.
"An announcement concerning their joint conclusion and a further course of action will be made available by the Clippers, as soon as possible after that."
USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo suggested Griffin might have initially suffered the injury during the NBA playoffs. "The reality is, that injury took place at the end of the season," Colangelo said. "And he had an option to get scoped and he opted not to get scoped. So, I guess he aggravated it."
Griffin missed the US team's 113-59 win over the Dominican Republic in an exhibition game, with No 1 pick Anthony Davis filling in. The New Orleans Hornets rookie, who scored 9 points in 10 minutes against the Dominican Republic, is now expected to be added to the roster.
