Olajuwon Has Knee Surgery

Hakeem Olajuwon, the Houston Rockets’ all-star center, underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Monday night and could be sidelined for about two months, team doctors said.

The 30-minute operation was performed by team doctors Bruce Moseley and Walter Lowe.

Olajuwon, 34, has been slowed so far this season and complained about his knee after Saturday’s game against Golden State, when he made four of 14 shots. Team doctors considered surgery or rest and rehabilitation for the injury caused by wear and tear.

Monday’s decision came a day after Olajuwon underwent an MRI exam.

“It’s definitely time to get this thing fixed,” Lowe said.

Doctors said Olajuwon would be hospitalized overnight with rehabilitation beginning today.

In the operation, doctors removed some tissue in the knee joint.

“We’re hoping he would be ready in six to eight weeks,” Moseley said. “We’ll be happy if he’s back by the All-Star break [Feb. 5-8].”

Olajuwon said Saturday soreness in his knees normally subsides after the exhibition season, but not this season.

“I just want to find out what it is and do whatever is necessary to correct it,” Olajuwon said before the procedure.

The Rockets (6-5) already have been hobbled by the loss of forward Charles Barkley because of a groin injury. He’s expected to return after Thanksgiving.