Sixers' Bynum out until January

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PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum, acquired in August from the Los Angeles Lakers, may not be able to play for the 76ers until January, the team said Monday.

Bynum was part of the four-team deal in which Dwight Howard left Orlando to join the Lakers, but a knee injury has kept Bynum on the sidelines.

Philadelphia officials said Bynum has a bone bruise in his right knee. After an examination Monday, the Sixers said the new schedule has Bynum starting normal basketball activity in mid-December. Officials said Bynum would then need 1-4 weeks of conditioning and practice before playing in a game.

"We know that Sixers fans are eager to see Andrew Bynum play and shine in a 76ers uniform," said General Manager Tony DiLeo in a statement Monday. "We also know that no one is more eager to see Andrew play for the Sixers than Andrew himself. He fully realizes the key contribution he can make to the team. Hopefully, that day is coming soon."

Bynum played his previous seven NBA seasons with the Lakers, averaging 11.7 points and 7.8 rebounds a game over his 392-game career. In 60 games last season, he scored 18.7 points and had 11.8 rebounds a game. Both were career highs.