Lakers Welcome Back Jarred Vanderbilt for Road Trip
The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a six-game road trip with a major boost: the return of forward Jarred Vanderbilt. After nearly nine months sidelined with foot injuries, Vanderbilt has been cleared to play and could make his season debut on Saturday against the Golden State Warriors.
VanderbiltS return is a welcome sight for lakers coach JJ Redick.
“We’re not going to put him out there in any situation were he would get hurt,” Redick said. “And we don’t feel that’s the case right now. Any player that’s coming back from an extended period of time, there will be a minutes restriction. We’re not going to overuse him.”
Vanderbilt last played on February 1, 2024, when he suffered the foot injury. he attempted a comeback during the playoffs but didn’t see the floor before the Lakers were eliminated in the first round. He underwent offseason surgeries on both feet.
“It’s been a process, but I mean, you know, credit to the staff, the guys, everybody in the institution for you know being patient and allowing me to heal and go through this full recovery process,” Vanderbilt said. “But yeah, I feel like I’m in a good place now.”
Vanderbilt’s return bolsters the Lakers’ defensive capabilities and rebounding, areas where the team has had some struggles. The Lakers will also be without veteran Christian Wood and seldom-used guard Jalen Hood-Schifino. Rookie Bronny James will remain with the Lakers’ G League team for the start of the road trip.
What impact will Jarred Vanderbilt’s return have on the Lakers’ defense and rebounding?
Lakers Welcome Back Jarred Vanderbilt for Road Trip
The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a six-game road trip with a major boost: the return of forward Jarred Vanderbilt. After nearly nine months sidelined with foot injuries,Vanderbilt has been cleared to play and could make his season debut on Saturday against the Golden State Warriors.
VanderbiltS return is a welcome sight for lakers coach JJ Redick.
“We’re not going to put him out there in any situation were he would get hurt,” Redick said. “and we don’t feel that’s the case right now.Any player that’s coming back from an extended period of time, there will be a minutes restriction.We’re not going to overuse him.”
Vanderbilt last played on February 1, 2024, when he suffered the foot injury. he attempted a comeback during the playoffs but didn’t see the floor before the Lakers were eliminated in the frist round.He underwent offseason surgeries on both feet.
“It’s been a process, but I mean, you know, credit to the staff, the guys, everybody in the institution for you know being patient and allowing me to heal and go through this full recovery process,” Vanderbilt said. “But yeah, I feel like I’m in a good place now.”
Vanderbilt’s return bolsters the Lakers’ defensive capabilities and rebounding, areas where the team has had some struggles. The Lakers will also be without veteran Christian Wood and seldom-used guard Jalen Hood-Schifino. Rookie Bronny James will remain with the Lakers’ G League team for the start of the road trip.
Q&A
when can fans expect to see Vanderbilt back in action?
He could make his season debut as soon as Saturday against the Golden State Warriors.
What type of injury sidelined Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt was sidelined for nearly nine months due to foot injuries that required offseason surgeries on both feet.
How will the Lakers manage Vanderbilt’s return?
Coach Redick stated there will be a minutes restriction to ensure Vanderbilt doesn’t get overworked after his extended time away from the game. [1]](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6082276/2025/01/22/jarred-vanderbilt-lakers-medically-cleared-return/)
Get ready to see Vanderbilt bring his defensive intensity and rebounding prowess back to the court!
