The waiting and hoping game is over for Milwaukee Bucks forward Joe Smith.

After enduring off-and-on pain in his left knee for nearly two months, Smith made the decision to undergo arthroscopic surgery, a procedure that will keep him out of the lineup for six to eight weeks.

Bucks doctor John Heinrich is scheduled to perform the surgery today to remove loose cartilage in the knee.

The 6-foot-10 Smith has been plagued with left knee soreness since the opening week of training camp in October. He was able to play in eight games this season, including five starts, and averaged 9.8 points and 9.0 rebounds.

But he suffered renewed swelling in the knee after the Bucks' 99-91 loss to Minnesota on Nov. 25. Smith played 35 minutes in that game.

"I felt we did the right things with the exhibition season, sitting it out for a while, and draining it (the knee) before," Smith said Monday. "Nothing seemed to work. This was our last option, and we're here now."

Smith said he ultimately decided not to seek a second medical opinion, and he indicated the Bucks' medical staff left the decision to him. If all goes well with the surgery and his rehabilitation, Smith might be able to return by the end of January.