Fans wish to know about Jarred Vanderbilt as he recovers from an injury that sidelined him last season. His absence has left Los Angeles Lakers fans eagerly waiting for updates, especially with the 2024-25 season opener approaching. Vanderbilt’s defensive skills make him a vital part of the team and his return could significantly impact the Lakers’ season.
Here’s what we know so far about Vanderbilt’s injury and what his return could mean for the Lakers.
How did Jarred Vanderbilt get injured?
On February 1, 2024, Jarred Vanderbilt got his foot injured while playing against the Boston Celtics. The injury occurred in the second quarter when he was returning the ball against Jayson Tatum, leading to Vanderbilt missing the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
This injury was significant as Vanderbilt had played only 29 games before the incident, making him a crucial defensive piece the Lakers missed. He underwent surgeries on both feet during the offseason to address his injury issues.
When will Jarred Vanderbilt return to play with the Los Angeles Lakers?
Vanderbilt might return during the 2024-25 season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22, 2024. Despite missing the preseason games, Lakers head coach JJ Redick mentioned that Vanderbilt is in the “ramp-up” stage of recovery, with no setbacks.
His return is eagerly anticipated as he is one of the team’s best defenders, holding a defensive rating of 109.4, after only Gabe Vincent. The Lakers will need his defense and rebounding, especially against strong frontcourts like the Timberwolves.
Vanderbilt’s health will be critical for the Lakers’ success this season. His presence on the court boosts their defensive prowess and helps them compete against bigger teams. If he remains healthy, Vanderbilt can significantly contribute to the Lakers’ defense and rebounding. These areas were challenges for the team last season.
