On Tuesday morning, Washington Wizards guard Malcolm Brogdon underwent surgery in New York City to address a torn ligament in his right thumb. The timeline for his return to play will hinge on his recovery response, but athletes who sustain similar injuries typically need six to eight weeks of rehabilitation.
The team announced Brogdon’s surgery, which was first reported by The Athletic, on Tuesday afternoon.
On Saturday, Brogdon sustained the injury during a team practice in Montreal. Following the incident, team officials sent him home to the Washington, D.C. area on Sunday to conduct imaging tests.
Brogdon joined the Wizards in June after being acquired in a draft-night trade. In this deal, Washington traded 23-year-old forward Deni Avdija to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for the draft rights to 14th pick Bub Carrington, a first-round draft pick in 2029, as well as second-round picks in 2028 and 2030, alongside Brogdon.
While Carrington and the additional draft picks were the highlights of the trade, the Wizards valued Brogdon for his veteran insights and his role as an enthusiastic mentor to younger teammates, viewing him as a potential locker-room leader within an increasingly youthful roster. He quickly integrated himself with the team, spending time with younger players during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
Brogdon’s absence is expected to grant increased playing time to Carrington and another rookie, guard Kyshawn George.
Across eight seasons with four NBA teams, Brogdon has averaged 15.4 points and 4.7 assists per game. He captured the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2016-17 as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks and was honored as the 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year while with the Boston Celtics.
This season, he is earning $22.5 million in the final year of a two-year contract.
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(Photo: Soobum Im / USA Today)
Wizards Guard Malcolm Brogdon Undergoes Thumb Surgery, Faces Six to Eight Weeks Rehabilitation
Overview of the Injury
Recently, Washington Wizards guard Malcolm Brogdon underwent surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb. The surgery, conducted on October 8, 2024, was deemed necessary following an injury sustained during a recent practice session. The Wizards announced that Brogdon will face a rehabilitation period of approximately six to eight weeks, which raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming NBA season.
The Surgery Details
The surgical procedure aimed to reattach the torn ligament, a common injury among basketball players, especially those who rely heavily on their grip and shooting hand. The recovery process will involve physical therapy and gradual reintroduction to basketball activities. Here are key details regarding the surgery:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Surgery Date | October 8, 2024 |
| Injury Type | Torn ligament in right thumb |
| Expected Rehabilitation Time | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Team Update | Washington Wizards |
Understanding the Impact of the Injury
For the Wizards, Malcolm Brogdon’s injury comes at a critical time as the team prepares for the new NBA season. Brogdon, known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, plays a pivotal role in the Wizards’ backcourt. The absence of a key player like him can significantly impact the team’s performance. Here are some potential effects:
- Reduced Offensive Capability: Brogdon’s ability to score and assist will leave a gap in the Wizards’ offensive strategy.
- Increased Pressure on Teammates: Other guards will need to step up in Brogdon’s absence, potentially affecting their performance.
- Adjustment of Game Plans: The coaching staff may have to alter their game plans to accommodate the changes in the lineup.
Rehabilitation Process
The rehabilitation process for a thumb surgery usually involves several stages, each aimed at restoring strength and mobility to the injured area. Here are the typical phases of recovery:
Phase 1: Immediate Post-Surgery
- Rest: Keeping the hand immobilized to promote healing.
- Pain Management: Using prescribed medications to manage discomfort.
Phase 2: Early Rehabilitation (Weeks 1-2)
- Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Start with light exercises to prevent stiffness.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ups to ensure proper healing.
Phase 3: Strengthening (Weeks 3-6)
- Progressive Exercises: Gradual increase in the intensity of exercises to regain strength.
- Functional Activities: Engaging in basketball-related drills as tolerated.
Phase 4: Return to Play (Weeks 6-8)
- Full Training: Resuming full basketball activities including scrimmages.
- Evaluation: Final assessments to determine readiness for game play.
Benefits of a Comprehensive Rehabilitation Plan
Following a well-structured rehabilitation plan can yield several benefits for athletes recovering from surgery, including:
- Quicker Recovery: A detailed plan helps accelerate the recovery timeline.
- Injury Prevention: Strengthening exercises reduce the risk of re-injury.
- Improved Performance: Proper rehabilitation enables athletes to return to their peak performance levels.
Case Studies of Recovery
Many NBA players have successfully recovered from similar injuries and returned to their elite performance levels. Below are a few notable examples:
| Player | Injury | Recovery Time | Return Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Paul | Torn ligament in thumb | 8 weeks | All-Star performance |
| Klay Thompson | Thumb surgery | 7 weeks | Key contributor in playoff run |
| Jrue Holiday | Wrist surgery | 6 weeks | Returned to All-Star form |
First-Hand Experience: What to Expect
Athletes who have undergone similar surgeries often share their experiences, emphasizing the importance of patience and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Here are some common insights:
- Mindset Matters: Staying positive and focused on recovery can significantly impact the overall healing process.
- Listen to Your Body: It’s crucial to heed any signs of pain or discomfort during rehabilitation exercises.
- Stay Engaged: Staying involved with the team and its activities can help maintain motivation during recovery.
Conclusion
As Malcolm Brogdon embarks on his recovery journey, the Wizards and their fans will be hoping for a swift return to the court. The success of his rehabilitation will not only affect his individual performance but also the overall dynamics of the team as they aim for a successful NBA season.
