Rockets team physician Tom Clanton confirmed on Monday that Yao Ming’s broken left foot “has the potential for him missing this next season and could be career threatening.”

Yao is scheduled to meet with more specialists to determine the best course of action, hopefully avoiding yet another surgery. He hasn’t had any pain or swelling, but the results of a recent CT scan were “shocking” for both Yao and the Rockets. Surgery is a realistic option, and no matter the course of treatment it sounds like Yao will miss at least a big chunk of 2009-2010. [Rotoworld]

When asked about his health and potential career threatening injury, Yao responded, “I love this game.”

JJSN also asked for his thoughts on how the Rockets plans would fare without him and Yao said, “I love this game.”

When asked if he could say anything else in English, Yao said, “I love this game” and gave a thumbs up sign.

Tags: chinese man, foot injury, over seven feet, too large, yao ming