Grida missed the beginning of last season suffering the same injury in the previous off-season, though a delayed season due to COVID-19 saw him get back on the floor and feature in the Hawks run to the finals.

"I was driving to the basket like I've done a thousand times since my return from the last surgery and my leg just twisted the wrong way," Grida said.

"I kind of knew it wasn't good, but you always hope for the best. Unfortunately for me scans have confirmed another ACL tear.

"There's no hiding the fact I'm extremely disappointed and it sucks I won't be able to take the court with my teammates this season.

"I guess understanding the recovery process could make my rehab a little bit easier, and the surgeon is confident so I'm really happy with the plan."

Coach Brian Goorjian showed huge faith in the 23-year-old last season, ensuring he returned to the rotation once he was fit and starting him in a crunch semi-finals decider in Perth last season.

He's made no secret of his intent to see the West Aussie build on that campaign, though it will now have to wait.

"It's Just really sad news for him," Goorjian said.

"Dan is a wonderful teammate and a fantastic ambassador for basketball in this region and I know the playing group and the entire Illawarra region will be feeling for him at the moment.

"He's still a young guy with a lot of basketball ahead of him so we will do our best to support him through this initial period, and then ensure he has the best possible environment around him to make a successful return to the court in due time.

"He's diligent and enthusiastic and I'm confident he will attack his rehab with that exact attitude."

Read more: Hawks part ways with Trice over anti-vaccination stance

President and co-owner Dorry Kordahi said the club will ensure Grida has access to the best rehabilitation resources in his recovery.

"This is terrible news for Dan and a tragedy that it comes so soon after recovering from a previous surgery on the same knee," Kordahi, said.

"As is always the case with a long-term injury like this, we will ensure Dan has everything he needs in terms of support and care as he begins the road back to the court.

"We are fortunate to have the services of some of the best medical and sports science professionals in the country that will ensure Dan's rehabilitation is as straight forward as possible."

As a silver lining, it could well see the incredible continuation of club stalwart Tim Coenraad's career, with the veteran having already signed on as a shadow injury replacement.

The club is still on the lookout for a third import after releasing point-guard Travis Trice last week over his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to season tipoff.

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