Channing Frye Diagnosed With Enlarged Heart, Sidelined Indefinitely

The Phoenix Suns announced Thursday that forward Channing Frye will be out until at least December after being diagnosed with an enlarged heart. Dr. Tim Byrne discovered what is called "dilated cardiomyopathy" during a regular preseason screening.

While the team said he will be sidelined indefinitely, Frye won't be reevaluated until December and will be watched over by the Suns' medical staff. He will not participate in any basketball activities.

Said Phoenix President of Basketball Operations Lon Babby:

"Nothing is more important to us than the health and well-being of our players. Channing and his family have the full support of our organization. His health is our primary concern and we are committed to helping him in any way he needs."

The Suns lose the stretch power forward, who was also recovering from a shoulder injury that occurred at the end of last season. Frye averaged 10.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game in 2011-12.

Phoenix will fill in for Frye with second-year forward Markieff Morris and offseason acquisition Luis Scola, while free agent signee Michael Beasley could also slide to the power forward slot.

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