Detroit Pistons forward Jon Leuer is slated to undergo season-ending surgery in his ankle, according to Rod Beard of The Detroit News.
Leuer hasn't played since first injuring his ankle on Halloween, as the team has played his recovery by ear ever since. The Pistons have considered asking for a disabled player exception in the wake of this decision, hoping to be able to open up another roster spot for a player that can contribute this season. The organization has six players on the shelf, including guards Reggie Jackson, Avery Bradley, Luke Kennard, forwards Reggie Bullock, Stanley Johnson, and Leuer.
The 28-year-old forward was a steady contributor last season, starting and coming off the bench, as head coach Stan Van Gundy tried to figure out the fit for a struggling team that came short of making the playoffs a year after cracking the eighth spot.
The Pistons find themselves in the very same implication, dropping from being one of the leaders of the East to a virtual tie with the Philadelphia 76ers, who have the tiebreaker.
Detroit has lost the last three games and have gone 3-7 in their last 10 games, losing the momentum they once had upon starting the season strong.
Leuer has only played in eight games this season, but having the surgery now would allow him to come back in full health next season, the third of a four-year, $42-million contract he signed in 2016.
Detroit will have to make due with Tobias Harris and Anthony Tolliver in his absence.
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