Knicks’ J.R. Smith out three to four months after knee surgery

Swingman J.R. Smith probably will miss the start of the New York Knicks’ training camp in September after undergoing patella tendon surgery and arthroscopy to repair a tear in the lateral meniscus of his left knee Monday.

Smith’s injuries were “chronic and had gradually worsened,” the Knicks shared via Twitter.

The news comes just days after the reigning Sixth Man of the Year signed a four-year contract extension with New York worth nearly $25 million.

Smith averaged 18.1 points per game for the Knicks, second behind Carmelo Anthony (28.7), as New York advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals, in which they were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers last season.

“You win 54 games last year with your core group and a nice supporting cast and he [Smith] was a big piece to the puzzle last year,” New York Coach Mike Woodson said before a practice at the Las Vegas Summer League this week. “I thought it was very important that we got him back here in a Knick uniform.”

Smith’s return was a priority, but the Knicks also have brought in new pieces during the offseason.

Former Laker Metta World Peace, who helped L.A. to its 16th NBA title in 2010, announced Monday he will be joining the Knicks.

World Peace cleared waivers Sunday after L.A. used its amnesty provision on the 33-year-old veteran.

New York also acquired Andrea Bargnani via trade with the Toronto Raptors for Marcus Camby, Steve Novak and Quintin Richardson.

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