Wolves' Turiaf has season-ending hip surgery, likely to be released

Ronny Turiaf's time with the Minnesota Timberwolves appears to have come to a close.

Turiaf underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right hip on Tuesday, a procedure that puts an end to his 2014-15 season. His troublesome hip limited him to just two games and 19 minutes on the season.

The Wolves will almost surely release Turiaf now, as the high-energy center is in the final year of his contract. Turiaf will earn $1.5 million this season regardless of whether he's on the roster, so by releasing him, Minnesota would free up an additional roster spot. For a young team dealing with injuries and trying to find potential pieces for the future, that roster spot holds value.

Head coach Flip Saunders said Tuesday that the team would release Turiaf if the right player becomes available. He's said to be well-liked and has always been a high-character player, so it's entirely possible the team would still try to keep him around after his release, should his rehabilitation allow for it.

Turiaf, a Gonzaga product, has appeared in 473 games over 10 seasons with seven teams, averaging 4.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.3 blocks.