LaMarcus Aldridge could miss the start of training camp next season by delaying his thumb surgery.

Although Aldridge is not risking his long-term health by playing with a torn ligament, a specialist in the field said he could now be facing a recovery that will take twice as long -- up to three or four months.

Dr. Steven Shin, a hand/wrist surgeon at the Kerlan-Jobe Clinic in Los Angeles, said the only downside Aldridge faces by postponing his surgery are the longer recovery time and having to play through pain.

"The reason why we suggest surgery rather than waiting is the quality of ligament can deteriorate with time,'' Shin said.

The overall recovery time goes from 6-to-8 weeks to three-to-four months, Shin said.