Hurley Might Not Require Surgery on His Right Knee

Bobby Hurley of the Sacramento Kings might not require surgery on his right knee despite a torn ligament from the automobile accident that nearly took his life.

Hurley said Wednesday that doctors are pleased with the progress of his recovery from the accident Dec. 12. He was particularly worried about the knee but got an encouraging report Tuesday when he was examined by an orthopedist.

“My knee is surprisingly good,” he said in a teleconference call. “The doctors don’t know if surgery is even necessary. Right now, the knee is tight and getting stronger.

“The doctors said there is only a 3% difference in strength between the right leg and left leg. They consider surgery successful if there’s just 3% difference after surgery and it’s 3% right now.

“The ligament is pretty much torn. But if the 3% difference stays or gets less, I may not require surgery. I hope I don’t need it. If I do, I’ll have it in six to eight weeks.”

Hurley, recuperating in Sacramento, said if surgery is necessary, it will be performed in New York.

He said he had talked with some former teammates, including Christian Laettner of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves. Hurley also has received all manner of gifts, including a set of golf clubs.

“I thought that was pretty cool,” he said.