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Positive Injury Updates for Jarred Vanderbilt and Jaxson Hayes

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Jan 1, 2025 5:45 PM ET

The Lakers received encouraging news Monday as Jarred Vanderbilt, who has yet to play this season due to ongoing feet and knee injuries, took a significant step in his recovery.

Vanderbilt's journey back to the court has been lengthy (and filled with bad luck). Multiple foot surgeries during the summer followed his mid-foot sprain against Boston last February. Earlier this month it was released that the young forward experienced a fluid buildup in his left knee during his injury rehabilitation, delaying his return. On the bright side, head coach JJ Redick revealed that the defensive specialist participated in non-contact portions of practice on Monday - the first positive development since Vanderbilt's December setback.

While Vanderbilt's numbers from last season might appear modest at best (5.2 points, 1.2 assists, 4.8 rebounds), his defensive versatility on the perimeter makes him a crucial piece of the Lakers' rotation.

Even better news came regarding Jaxson Hayes who - according to head coach JJ Redick - appears ready to return after missing 20 of 21 games with an ankle sprain:

"Jaxson was a participant today in practice and is probable for tomorrow."

These positive updates couldn't have come at a better time as the Lakers should finally be able to field a fully healthy roster within the coming weeks. A lack of roster depth has plagued Los Angeles, leaving them flailing against elite competition. They'll need all the help they can get if they want to make a playoff push in this extremely competition Western Conference.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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