Apr 26, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) reacts during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies during game five of the 2023 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
As the 2023-24 season nears its conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers are holding on to slim hopes of improving their position in the Western Conference standings.
A crucial loss to the Golden State Warriors earlier in the week was attributed to Anthony Davis’ absence due to headaches and nausea, depriving the Lakers of their size advantage and resulting in predictable struggles on both offense and defense.
Davis’ unavailability exacerbated the team’s lack of frontcourt depth, particularly with Jarred Vanderbilt still awaiting clearance to return. Despite optimism surrounding Vanderbilt’s potential return after a re-evaluation, no progress has materialized.
Before the matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, head coach Darvin Ham provided no significant updates on Vanderbilt’s status, merely stating, “No new updates.” When pressed for a timeline on Vanderbilt’s return, Ham remained vague, saying, “We’ll see. He had a good workout today. So we’ll see.”
Such uncertainty doesn’t bode well for Vanderbilt’s chances of returning anytime soon. Initially anticipated to play a few games to readjust to the pace, he now faces the risk of missing the remainder of the season entirely.
Given the Lakers’ precarious position in the standings, Vanderbilt’s return may hinge on the team’s ability to advance beyond the Play-In Tournament. Should he remain sidelined, Ham will heavily rely on the available frontcourt players, with Rui Hachimura performing admirably but lacking Vanderbilt’s defensive versatility.
Despite recent setbacks, Anthony Davis remains optimistic about the Lakers’ prospects, believing the team is still in a favorable position heading into the postseason.
