FILE – Wes Iwundu #25 of the Dallas Mavericks look son as Jared Dudley #10 of the Los Angeles Lakers gets a rebound at Staples Center on December 25, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers won 138-115. John McCoy/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by John MCCOY / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
Los Angeles Lakers veteran forward Jared Dudley has a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee and will be out indefinitely.
Dudley, 35, is evaluating his options for treatment. He has not played since March 3 against the Sacramento Kings.
Jared Dudley injury update from the team:
“In addition to a right knee contusion, Jared Dudley has been diagnosed with a right MCL tear. He is evaluating his treatment options and a timeline for his return will be given when appropriate.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 15, 2021
The 14-year veteran has played sporadically for the Lakers this season but is considered to be a valuable presence in the locker room. In 11 games, he is averaging 0.5 points and 1.7 rebounds.
In 903 career contests (286 starts), Dudley is averaging 7.3 points and 3.2 rebounds. He earned his first NBA championship ring last season with the Lakers, appearing in nine playoff games off the bench.