Dec 31 (Reuters) - The Charlotte Hornets' playoff prospects were dealt a heavy blow on Thursday when pivotal center Al Jefferson had surgery on his right knee, ruling him out until around mid-February.
The 30-year-old had a tear in his lateral meniscus and "his recovery and rehabilitation is expected to take approximately six weeks", the team said in a statement.
Jefferson was only two games into a return from a prolonged absence when he suffered the setback. He had previously missed 11 games due to injury and a suspension for violating the NBA's anti-drug program.