De'Anthony Melton to Undergo ACL Surgery, OUT for the Season

Golden State Warriors guard De'Anthony Melton will undergo surgery on his left ACL and will miss the rest of the season, the team announced Wednesday. Melton initially hoped to rehab the injury after missing two games due to an ACL sprain, but after consulting with multiple specialists, it was decided that surgery was the best option to avoid further damage.

Melton, who signed a one-year, $12.8 million deal in free agency, had played in just six games this season, averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals. He was expected to be a key starter for the Warriors alongside Stephen Curry. Head coach Steve Kerr expressed disappointment, calling Melton "a perfect fit" for the team.

In Melton’s absence, Lindy Waters III will start in his place. Teammate Draymond Green also shared his sympathy, highlighting how much the team would miss Melton’s positive energy and attitude.

With the injury, the Warriors are eligible to apply for a disabled player exception worth $6.4 million, although they are just $534,000 below the salary cap threshold, limiting their options.