Lakers Injury Report: Target Timeline For Jarred Vanderbilt's Return Revealed
The return of the Los Angeles Lakers' defensive-minded forward could be arriving sooner rather than later. According to The Athletic's Jovan Buha, the Lakers are targeting an early April return for forward Jarred Vanderbilt.
Vanderbilt has not played since February 1 against the Boston Celtics after suffering a significant foot injury. It's been an injury-riddled season for the 24-year-old as he's dealt with heel and back injuries prior to the foot issue. He has played in just 29 contests for LA this year.
The Lakers have missed his presence severely, as they have been among the worst defenses in the league since his injury. The Lakers have ranked within the league's bottom five in defense since the All-Star break; however, they've made up for it due to their tremendous offensive display this last month and a half.
Still, they need their defense to improve ASAP, and Vanderbilt is the key to that. He is their second-best and most impactful defender outside of Anthony Davis. This team will not reach its full potential without him. It's vital Vanderbilt is on the court for the purple and gold as he brings his peskiness and infectious energy to the squad.
According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, Vanderbilt is progressing on a return-to-play plan, but he has not yet been cleared for contact.
Nonetheless, this is encouraging news for the Lakers and their fans. Vando should be back soon — just in time for postseason basketball.
