New Jersey Nets forward Richard Jefferson underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle, on Monday, January 22, Nets President Rod Thorn announced today.

The surgery removed loose bodies from the ankle. The procedure was performed at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan by Dr. Martin O'Malley and Dr. Riley Williams III.

Jefferson, a sixth year pro from Arizona, will begin rehabilitation in approximately 10 days. There is no timetable for his return.

The 6-7 forward has averaged 16.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 34 games during the 2006-07 campaign. Jefferson holds career averages of 16.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 386 contests.

The Nets are already without key forward/center Nenad Krstic who is out for the season. Krstic and Krstic combine for 32.5 points per game.

Mikki Moore had been attempting to step up in place for Krstic. Bostjan Nachbar, Antoine Wright and Eddie House will have to do more in Jefferson's absence.

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