Clippers' Griffin has successful kneecap surgery

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Blake Griffin's broken left kneecap has been repaired by surgery that will keep the Los Angeles Clippers' No. 1 overall draft pick out for the rest of the season.

Griffin underwent a two-part procedure Wednesday morning at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Center in Los Angeles. Dr. Neal ElAttrache repaired Griffin's patellar tendon and performed a "left patellar fragment excision," according to the Clippers.

Griffin is expected to be back in action in four to six months, allowing him to return for summer workouts.

The club announced last week that Griffin would miss the entire season. He broke his kneecap during the Clippers' final exhibition game Oct. 23.