Kiara Leslie out 3-4 months, according to report

The Washington Mystics announced that rookie guard Kiara Leslie had arthroscopic surgery on her right knee’s meniscus. Her recovery is expected to be three to four months according to a release by the team.

Based on the timing of the WNBA season, Leslie will miss the majority of the 2019 season if she misses three months. If she misses four months, this will go past the last regular season game.

Based on the injury and the timetable, there is a significant possibility that the Mystics suspend Leslie without pay. On the surface, a suspension sounds like Leslie is being punished because of her injury. However, the WNBA uses the term “suspension” for other situations like players getting injured, having children or playing in international tournaments.

Leslie’s absence would give Washington salary cap relief while still retaining her rights for the 2020 season. In addition, even if Leslie were healthy, she would probably not start or even be the first wing player off the bench. So for a team in Washington’s situation, this hurts but it’s not a fatal blow either.