Josh McRoberts out for Season After Successful Knee Surgery

The Miami Heat will be without Josh McRoberts for the remainder of the 2014-15 NBA season after the 27-year-old underwent surgery on his right knee for a torn meniscus.     

According to a press release from the Heat on NBA.com, McRoberts' operation was "successful." The statement continued, "The 45-minute procedure was performed by Dr. Harlan Selesnick at Doctors Hospital in Miami on Monday. He will miss the remainder of the season."

McRoberts appeared in 17 games for the Heat this season, including four starts, and averaged 4.2 points and 2.6 rebounds per game. The former Duke star has an extensive injury history, playing in 50 or more games four times in eight NBA seasons. 

The Heat signed McRoberts to a four-year contract in the offseason. At the time, McRoberts' agent, Mike Conley, told Marc Stein of ESPN.com that Miami's pitch to McRoberts blew him away.

"From Coach [Spoelstra] to [Heat executive] Andy Elisburg to Pat to ownership, they were all really excited about Josh," Conley said. "They all met with Josh, came out from day one with their offer and made it clear to us that Josh is who they want."

McRoberts' injury does leave a void in Miami's lineup, though the team is exploring various options. Stein noted on Twitter the Heat are looking for an exception to potentially make a run at Josh Smith:

McRoberts didn't make the kind of impact the Heat were hoping for when they signed him over the summer, but it's always hard to find size. Miami is last in the league in rebounding, and his 6'10" frame was a valuable piece of the roster, even with some of the limitations. 

The Heat can use an extra body, as they are clinging to a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with a 13-15 record. Smith does have experience playing the power forward spot but is more of a small forward, so there would be an adjustment if they are able to sign him.