The Pacers were a very tough out in last year's playoffs and were hoping to make the next jump this year into contender status. Those hopes took a step back with the news that Danny Granger will miss the next 3 months. Granger received an injection to treat patellar tendinosis.

via CBS Sports

If Granger ends up being out for three months, that puts his return around All-Star Weekend in February. If he doesn't come back until after the All-Star break, he'd miss roughly 53 games to start this season.

Patellar tendinosis is commonly referred to as "jumper's knee." It's a fairly common injury in the NBA, and players such as Dwyane Wade and Kenyon Martin have suffered from it in varying degrees. Jumper's knee is an inflammation in the patellar tendon and can end up being a complete tear of the tendon. Players who suffer from the injury often have problems straightening their leg.

One man's hard luck is another man's opportunity, though. So look for Mickael Pietrus to finally find a home soon.

The Pacers have already reached out to the agent of free agent swingman Mickael Pietrus as a possible replacement in the lineup

— Mike Wells (@MikeWellsNBA) November 7, 2012