The Los Angeles Lakers have a fantastic 2-1 record to open the NBA preseason.
In the first three games, D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura have stood out as the obvious leaders.
Jarred Vanderbilt, though, is one player who hasn’t seen much action because of injuries.
Last season, Vanderbilt solidified his position as one of the Lakers’ top defenders.
Vanderbilt will miss his third consecutive preseason game, as Dave McMenamin revealed to the Lakers faithful through his official Twitter account.
“There is no concern that Vando will not be ready in time for the season opener,” McMenamin reported.
Jarred Vanderbilt will miss his third straight preseason game tonight against GSW as the Lakers are "monitoring soreness" in Vanderbilt's left heel, sources told ESPN. There is no concern that Vando will not be ready in time for the season opener, however.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 13, 2023
The Lakers are apparently keeping an eye on Vanderbilt’s left heel pain, so he is not in the starting lineup.
He is thus anticipated to miss the Lakers’ subsequent preseason matchup against the Golden State Warriors.
Speaking of the contest, the Lakers will want to avenge their defeat in the first preseason game.
However, the Lakers do suffer from not having Vanderbilt on their roster.
After all, he is a top-notch defense who often has to guard the greatest player on the opposition’s squad.
The Lakers would for Vanderbilt to be back on the roster before the start of the regular season later this month.
To keep the 24-year-old rested for the next regular season, the team may bench him during the preseason.
