The Los Angeles Lakers have delivered an injury update, ruling out Jarred Vanderbilt for their home opener at Crypto.com Arena against the Phoenix Suns.

 

Vanderbilt, who hasn’t seen action since the Lakers’ first preseason game on October 7, will now miss his second consecutive game as the 2023-24 season kicks off.

While Vanderbilt’s signing of a four-year extension had sparked anticipation that he might secure the fifth starting spot, he has, instead, been observing the team from the sidelines. Taurean Prince has been named as the final starter and appears to have firmly established his role, given his compatibility with the other starting players.

 

Initially considered a minor injury, Vanderbilt’s condition has grown more concerning for both the Lakers and the player himself, as the team has refrained from providing a return timeline. The injury, once labeled as soreness, is now classified as left heel bursitis.

Vanderbilt has wrestled with lower body injuries in the past, and it appears he will require more time to reach full recovery.

 

Los Angeles bolstered its wing options during the offseason, allowing them to manage Vanderbilt’s absence in the short term. Nevertheless, Darvin Ham likely wishes for Vanderbilt’s swift return, as he remains one of the team’s top perimeter defenders. Despite facing some challenges during the playoffs, the 24-year-old retains his value as a versatile defender and an energy contributor.

 

In Vanderbilt’s absence, Prince is expected to continue to receive the lion’s share of small forward minutes, with Rui Hachimura providing backup off the bench. Cam Reddish also saw playing time in the team’s opener against the Denver Nuggets and may assume a more substantial role should Vanderbilt’s absence persist.