Report: Knicks' Hukporti out 4-6 weeks with torn meniscus
New York Knicks center Ariel Hukporti is expected to miss four-to-six weeks after sustaining a torn meniscus in his left knee during Wednesday's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.
Hukporti appeared to suffer the injury in the third quarter while battling for a rebound. The Knicks initially diagnosed the 7-footer with a knee sprain and subsequently ruled him out.
Hukporti made his first NBA start Wednesday in place of Karl-Anthony Towns, posting eight points, two boards, and one block in 16 minutes of action. The German was beginning to carve out a role in the club's rotation, averaging 17.4 minutes over his last three appearances.
The Dallas Mavericks selected Hukporti with the No. 58 overall pick in last year's draft and traded his rights to the Knicks.
Hukporti inked a two-way deal with New York and had his contract converted to a standard deal in November.
Backup center Precious Achiuwa could get the start if Towns is unable to go Friday versus the Memphis Grizzlies.
Mitchell Robinson also appears to be nearing a return after participating in practice earlier this week.