As the regular season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers have largely maintained their health. Jarred Vanderbilt’s heel injury has sidelined him for a significant portion of the preseason, but there have been no major concerns. However, in addition to Vanderbilt, backup point guard Gabe Vincent also missed the team’s preseason finale against the Phoenix Suns.

Vincent has been dealing with minor back soreness, which kept him out of the Lakers’ previous game against the Milwaukee Bucks. Many expected him to return for the game against the Suns, which was considered a dress rehearsal, but the Lakers chose to exercise caution, opting to rest Vincent in the preseason finale.

Head coach Darvin Ham confirmed the decision, stating, “He’ll be held out again tonight, just precautionary. Give him a few extra days so he can be ready to go come Tuesday night.”

The Lakers are undoubtedly eager to have Vincent back in top form for Opening Night, as they face the reigning NBA Champion Denver Nuggets. Following their Western Conference Finals defeat to Denver, the Lakers are motivated to make a strong statement by defeating the champions in the season’s inaugural game.

Gabe Vincent was a significant addition to the Lakers this offseason. Known for his ability to perform on the biggest stages, make timely three-pointers, and play strong defense, Vincent is expected to play a crucial role this season. Ham wants to ensure he is at his best when the regular season begins.

In the three preseason games he played, Vincent averaged 10.3 points and 2.7 assists while shooting 42.1% from beyond the arc. Playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Vincent is sure to receive plenty of open looks, making him one of the Lakers’ most vital role players this season.