The Washington Wizards have announced that Emeka Okafor will be out indefinitely after being diagnosed with a herniated disc in his neck.
The injury was discovered after the center complained of discomfort in his neck.
The 30-year-old told the Wizards' official website: "I have worked hard over the summer and was looking forward to the start of training camp next week, so this is a disappointing and frustrating situation for me.
"I have confidence that my teammates and coaches will be able to continue to take steps towards our goal of making the playoffs and that I will be able to do my part to help them once I return."
Okafor played in 79 games for the Wizards last season, averaging 9.7 points.