Dante Exum undergoes successful ACL surgery


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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Jazz point guard Dante Exum underwent successful surgery for the torn ACL in his left knee, the Utah Jazz reported today.

Exum's surgery, which was performed by Dr. Neal S. ElAttrache in Los Angeles, was required after Exum tore his ACL in a friendly with the Australian National Basketball team on Aug. 4. ElAttrache has a long track record of success when it comes to successful surgeries on pro athletes.

After being diagnosed with a torn ACL on Aug. 6, Exum has undergone "prehab" therapy, as the injury reduced in swelling and Exum's range of motion was increased. Finally this week, doctors felt Exum's knee was at the optimal point to conduct surgery.

The Jazz's press release indicated that a "timeline for his return to activity will be established at a later date." However, Jazz executives have stressed publicly and privately the importance of patience in Exum's return and have indicated that he is out for the entirety of the 2015-16 season.

A returning Exum would probably struggle somewhat as he adapted to NBA speed, and the Jazz would rather that process happen outside of regular season or NBA play. Furthermore, Exum's limited production last year, especially offensively, means that the Jazz wouldn't hugely benefit from Exum's return on the court. In short, it's a situation entirely unlike that of Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose, who was pushed to return from ACL surgery to give the Bulls an extra push in the playoffs three seasons ago.

With Exum out, Raulzinho Neto, Trey Burke and Bryce Cotton will compete in training camp for the role of starting PG for the Utah Jazz.

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Andy Larsen

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