Star forward David Mirkovic underwent successful surgery on his left foot Tuesday after suffering an injury during a July 31 practice, the program announced. Although Illinois said the sophomore is expected to make a full recovery, temporarily losing its most important player represents a massive blow for Brad Underwood and the Illini. His energy and shot-blocking can change games, but he has never averaged more than 19.1 minutes in a college season. Mirkovic is the player who can elevate the Illini from a good Big Ten team into a legitimate national championship contender. If Mirkovic returns before the season and quickly regains his conditioning, this injury could become little more than a frightening summer interruption.