NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson says doctors want him to rest for about two months before they determine whether he needs neck surgery to repair a herniated disk.
The 25-year old Anderson, who says he is now nearly pain-free with the help of medication, is optimistic about his long-term future in the NBA. However, he is unsure whether he will be able to play again this season.
Anderson was hurt in a collision with Boston’s Gerald Wallace on Jan. 3. Until then, the 6-foot-10 Anderson had been New Orleans’ leading scorer, averaging 19.8 points through 22 games.
Anderson says doctors told him that if he needs surgery, the procedure would be similar to the one Peyton Manning had before the NFL quarterback’s prolific return to pro football two seasons ago.