Lual-Acuil Jr to miss start of season with injury

Melbourne United’s Jo Lual-Acuil Jr is set to miss a portion of the upcoming NBL24 season as he recovers from a wrist injury.

The NBL22 MVP finalist recently re-signed with Melbourne United on a two-year deal, an announcement that delighted the club’s fans.

United’s medical staff recently identified Lual-Acuil Jr had a right wrist injury that was suffered prior to his return to Melbourne.

Lual-Acuil Jr underwent surgery on Thursday.

Melbourne United Head Coach Dean Vickerman expressed his sympathies for Lual-Acuil Jr.

“It is a big blow for Jo, as it means he will miss opportunities at the Summer League and the World Cup, as well as the start of our season.” Vickerman said.

“We are disappointed that he won’t be available to us to start our season, but we will look into options such as injury replacement players.

We will also look to Ariel (Hukporti) to take on a larger role in the early stages of the season to help cover for Jo.

“Right now our focus is on helping Jo recover, but as a club we are prepared for all kinds of scenarios, so we’ll evaluate all of this over the coming weeks and make our decisions from there.

“We are confident that with the support of our club and our first-class medical staff, that he will be able to fully recover and come back stronger than ever.”

It is expected that Lual-Acuil Jr will miss 4-5 months, with the club optimistic he will be able to re-join the team following the FIBA Window in November.