Second-year center James Wiseman is still progressing through the rehab process for his torn meniscus, but there’s a reason it’s taking longer than expected.
Wiseman, according to a report from Anthony Slater in The Athletic, received a minor arthroscopic surgery in mid-December to relieve swelling in his injured knee. The cleanup procedure set Wiseman’s timetable back.
It’s been nearly nine months since Wiseman had his initial surgery on April 15 to repair the torn meniscus in his right knee. Even on a conservative approach akin to Jaren Jackson Jr.’s — a precedent the Warriors have mentioned this year — nine months is extreme.
Sources told The Athletic’s Slater that the mid-December knee scope flushed out some loose bodies and helped alleviate “minor yet persistent swelling.” That type of procedure is relatively common for NBA players who have a history of knee issues and generally requires a short period of recovery time.
At one point, it looked like Wiseman, 20, was on track to return before shooting guard Klay Thompson. But the mid-December surgery — which was previously unreported — set his recovery back.
Wiseman still isn’t cleared for full contact, but Golden State coach Steve Kerr recently said he’s close. As a rookie, Wiseman averaged 11.5 points and 5.8 rebounds in 21.4 minutes per game. The athletic, rim-running big could add a new dimension to the already elite Warriors (30-10) as they gear up for the playoffs.