NBA: Heat lose McRoberts after knee surgery

Phoenix Suns’ Markieff Morris (11) pulls down a rebound between Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade (3) and Josh McRoberts, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, in Phoenix. AP FILE PHOTO

MIAMI, United States —  Miami forward Josh McRoberts has undergone successful surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee but will probably miss the remainder of the NBA season, the Heat said Tuesday.

An MRI exam last week revealed the tear, which led to the 45-minute operation and several months of rehabilitation to come.

The move might allow Miami to have a salary cap exception under NBA rules that could make the Heat a top bidder for forward Josh Smith, who was dropped by Detroit and is now a free agent.

McRoberts signed a four-year contract with Miami before the start of the season but the eight-year NBA veteran has been slowed by injuries, averaging only 4.2 points and 2.6 rebounds over 17 games.

Last season, McRoberts averaged career highs of 8.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists as a starter for Charlotte, who made a surprise run into the playoffs.