Saints call for ‘privacy’ as King’s injury nightmare continues
St Kilda star Max King is set to undergo his second knee surgery inside the space of two months in another blow to his comeback hopes.
King had initially aimed to be fit for the start of the home and away season but underwent what was deemed an exploratory arthroscope in his right knee in late February.
The 24-year-old will now undergo a second arthroscope as he continues to deal with lingering pain in the joint, with the Saints refusing to put a timeline on his return.
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“The aim of the surgery is to remove the pain Max has been experiencing,” St Kilda football boss David Misson said on Wednesday.
“We understand the interest in Max, however, ask [that] his privacy is respected at this time.
“Once we have more clarity on Max’s recovery we’ll look to share a return-to-play timeline.”
King, who was drafted fourth overall by the Saints in 2018, has not played a game since round 16 last season due to ongoing injury issues.
The talented forward has suffered knee issues throughout his career, even prior to his time in the AFL.
King signed a massive eight-year deal with the Saints last October, but has not played a game since. (AAP: Julian Smith)
King tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) early into his draft year in 2018 and did not play a game at the AFL level until 2020 due to his recovery.
Due to St Kilda’s partnership with the Sandringham Dragons, King’s Under-18 team, he was able to rehab the injury using the Saints facilities and medical staff prior to being drafted by the club.
Despite his ongoing injury issues, King remains arguably St Kilda’s most valuable asset, having kicked 159 goals in 83 career games, including a career-high mark of 52 during the 2022 season. He was St Kilda’s leading goal-kicker in both 2021 and 2022.
King was handsomely rewarded by St Kilda for his performances last October when he signed a fresh eight-year deal with the club that will see him remain a Saints player through to the 2032 season.
