Cleveland, OH – The Cleveland Cavaliers revealed on Monday that center Anderson Varejao recently developed a blood clot in his right lung, a condition that will sideline the standout rebounder for the remainder of the season.
Varejao developed the clot on Thursday and was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic, where the nine-year pro is currently being treated with blood thinners. He will remain on medication for approximately three months, though is expected to make a full recovery.
"Clearly our players' health is our top concern and we are disappointed for Anderson and his family," said Cavaliers general manager Chris Grant in a statement. "We know what a competitor he is and how much he wants to be on the court helping his teammates. In the meantime, he has our full support and we look forward to welcoming him back as he recovers."
Varejao had already been out since Dec. 19 due to a small torn muscle in his right leg that required surgery. At the time of the injury, the 6-foot-11 Brazilian was leading the NBA with an average of 14.4 rebounds per game in addition to scoring at a career-best 14.1 points-per-game clip.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.