Lakers’ Jarred Vanderbilt Continues Gradual Rehabilitation Following Foot Surgery
EL SEGUNDO, CA – Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt is in the midst of a cautious rehabilitation process after undergoing offseason surgery on both feet. The 25-year-old athlete, who has not played since suffering a sprained right midfoot injury during a February matchup against the Boston Celtics, will require at least a few more weeks before any updates on his progress are made.
The team announced on Wednesday night that Vanderbilt’s recovery has been slower than initially anticipated, though they clarified that he has not faced any setbacks. General Manager Rob Pelinka previously revealed that in addition to his right foot surgery in May, Vanderbilt was also contending with a “lingering bone spur” on the back of his left foot, prompting the decision to operate on both feet simultaneously.
During the recent media day, Pelinka expressed optimism that Vanderbilt would return in time for the Lakers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22. However, this expectation has not been met. As a result, Rui Hachimura, who has started all ten games he has played this season, has found himself sidelined for the last four games due to a sprained left ankle. In Hachimura’s absence, rookie Dalton Knecht has stepped up in recent games.
Vanderbilt is currently playing under a four-year, $48 million contract extension signed with the Lakers last year, contributing an average of 6.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.2 steals over 20 minutes per game during the 2023 regular season following his acquisition before the trade deadline. Fans and teammates alike will be eagerly awaiting updates on his recovery as the season progresses.
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