Sun goes down: Stoudemire could miss four months

Stoudemire, 22, underwent a procedure to repair a joint surface defect in his left knee at Banner Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix.

"The surgery went well and other than the defect that we treated today, Amare’s knee is remarkably and structurally healthy," Suns team physician Tom Carter said. "Given Amare’s age, and the nominal size and location of the defect, I am confidant the microfracture procedure performed will allow a healthy and normal return to action."

Stoudemire, a 2004-05 All-Star, recently agreed to a contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2010-11 season. Based on this season’s salary cap, the Arizona Republic stated the deal would be worth $72.6 million over five years.

The 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year, Stoudemire is coming off a stellar season that saw him lead Phoenix to the league’s best regular-season record (62-20). The 22-year-old averaged 26 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, while also ranking second in the NBA in field goal percentage (.559) and first in free throw attempts (795).

Stoudemire was even better during the playoffs, but his team ultimately lost in five games during the Western Conference finals to San Antonio.

The 6-foot-10 Stoudemire was the first player to enter the NBA directly from high school and win its top rookie honor. The ninth overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft, Stoudemire has averaged 19.9 points, 8.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 217 career games with the Suns.