Lakers’ Jarred Vanderbilt Expected Out at Least Two More Weeks

Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt became an underrated contributor toward the end of last season, following a February trade with the Jazz and Timberwolves.

But the start of this one has been on hold and will continue to be a little longer.

Per the team, Vanderbilt will miss at least two more weeks with left heel bursitis. This was announced because Vanderbilt had the injury reexamined by team doctors on Thursday.

While Vanderbilt isn’t looked upon to score, he did emerge as one the team’s best end-of-season defenders, starting 24 of the final 26 games.

He was expected to start alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James in the Lakers’ frontcourt this season, but his injury opened the door for another newcomer, Taurean Prince.

Lakers say that forward Jarred Vanderbilt was re-examined by Lakers team doctors on Thursday. His left heel bursitis is improving. Vanderbilt will be re-evaluated by the Lakers medical staff in two weeks, and a further update will be provided at that time.

— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) October 27, 2023