After being sidelined for over two months with a right midfoot sprain, Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt is eyeing a return as early as Game 3 of the first-round series against the Denver Nuggets, as per sources familiar with the situation.
Vanderbilt has been intensifying his on-court workouts over the past couple of weeks, culminating in a particularly rigorous session at Ball Arena on Monday morning. However, his availability for Game 3 hinges on how his body responds in the days leading up to the matchup in Los Angeles on Thursday.
Although Vanderbilt and Lakers backup big man Christian Wood have yet to receive clearance to return as of Monday, the team remains optimistic about their potential availability for the Denver series.
Wood has been sidelined since mid-February due to a left knee injury that required surgical intervention in March. Lakers coach Darvin Ham emphasized the importance of monitoring Vanderbilt’s recovery process day by day, noting that any decision regarding his return would depend on how he responds to the recent increase in activity.
Recognized for his defensive prowess, Vanderbilt was enjoying a productive spell offensively before his injury setback. In his last eight games prior to the midfoot sprain, he averaged 10.5 points on an impressive 66% shooting, along with 5.4 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game.
Moreover, over his last six outings, Vanderbilt recorded his highest scoring average in a six-game stretch throughout his six-year career, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
