Montero undergoes knee surgery

Jean Montero, a player for Olympiakos Piraeus, had surgery to repair the lateral meniscus in his left knee. The club confirmed the procedure on social media and estimated that Montero will be sidelined for six months, which would delay his return until the spring of 2027.

Surgery decision affects team plans

Montero had been following a treatment regimen that medical staff hoped would avoid surgery. Although a shorter absence was possible if surgery had been required, the decision to repair the meniscus rather than remove part of it has resulted in a longer recovery period.

Montero's absence impacts team rotation

Montero was already absent for games against Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş, and he was set to miss a match against Milan on Friday during the 9th round of the EuroLeague. His prolonged absence creates a significant gap in the team's rotation. In six appearances this season, Montero averaged 15.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game in 24 minutes per contest.

Montero's career background

Montero joined Olympiakos on July 8, 2026, after two seasons with Valencia. He had previously had a difficult start to the season in Valencia, where an operation on his finger kept him away from the court for several weeks. His signing was highlighted by Olympiakos, who emphasized his selection in the best five of the EuroLeague in 2026.

Olympiakos considers replacement

Israeli journalist Tomer Givati reported that Killian Hayes, a 25-year-old French-American player who has been without a club since the end of the 2025-2026 season with the Sacramento Kings, is one of the options being considered by Olympiakos to replace Montero. Hayes has been looking more seriously at the European market after not securing a spot in the NBA.

Hayes' potential fit for Olympiakos

Hayes' agent has denied any agreement with Maccabi Tel-Aviv, where journalists had previously suggested he might be sent. With the disciplinary suspension of Tyler Dorsey, the need for a playmaker is particularly evident for Georgios Bartzokas, who might welcome a player of Hayes' talent.

Hayes seeks NBA partnership

Although no official confirmation or denial has been made, Hayes' potential signing with Olympiakos would realize what he could not achieve in the NBA: playing alongside Evan Fournier. In February 2024, the Detroit Pistons released Hayes on the same day that Evan Fournier's transfer to the Michigan was officially announced, preventing the two French players from joining forces on the court.

Hayes' G-League performance

Hayes had a notable performance in the G-League last season with the Cleveland Charge, averaging 22.3 points and 7.9 assists per game. He appears increasingly open to returning to Europe, where he might find the ideal environment to make his debut in the top competition.