Originally published July 1, 2008 at 12:00 AM | Page modified July 2, 2008 at 12:00 AM

Sonics Earl Watson fractures thumb, to undergo surgery

The Sonics announced Tuesday that point guard Earl Watson suffered a fractured thumb and will undergo surgery Thursday in Los Angeles. The 29-year-old Watson, who...

By Seattle Times staff

The Sonics announced Tuesday that point guard Earl Watson suffered a fractured thumb and will undergo surgery Thursday in Los Angeles.

The 29-year-old Watson, who took over the starting role from Luke Ridnour last season, is expected to miss three to four months but could return by the end of training camp. Next season's NBA schedule has not been announced but teams generally open at the end of October.

"We are confident Earl will work hard toward a healthy and timely recovery and look forward to getting him back on the court," Sonics general manager Sam Presti said in a news release.

Last season, Watson averaged career highs in points (10.7), assists (6.8), rebounds (2.9) and minutes (29.1). Over his seven-year NBA career, Watson has averaged 7.4 ppg, 4.5 apg and 2.2 rpg in 529 games.

Watson joins centers Muhammad Sene and Robert Swift, who are recoverying from injuries suffered last season. The Sonics extended injured center Robert Swift a qualifying offer, which may be the extent of their free-agency deals.

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