How long will Jarred Vanderbilt‘s injury woes continue? This question has been a concern for the Lakers for a while now. The power forward’s history with injuries isn’t a good sign for the team. And now, the uncertainty surrounding the 2024-25 season has raised concerns about his future. The 25-year-old had hoped to use the offseason break for rehab, but that plan may not work out. An eyesore from Vando’s past is glaring at him, and the news isn’t favorable.

Jarred Vanderbilt has dealt with a long and complicated history of foot injuries since his high school and college days. But, these ‘companions of evil’ haven’t marred the power forward’s NBA career so far. Until recently, things were just fine. However, when you least expect the unwanted, the unwanted knocks at your door. It seems Vanderbilt’s ailments from the past are resurfacing. If this is true, then for how long can the LA Lakers rely on their foreman?

Meanwhile, Jonathan Hernandez from the Lakers Legacy podcast shared his thoughts on the issue. “Vando is serving one first of his four-year extensions” on the gold and purple team. “He is about to make $10-12 million within the next four years.” But, considering the concerns, will the Lakers ride the contract out? Rob Pelinka & Co. could reportedly keep an eye out for potential trade opportunities involving Jarred Vanderbilt. This makes us wonder, had he opted for the surgery following the injury in the game against the Celtics last season, what would the situation have been like? The team would’ve suffered from the absence of Vando. But at least, he could’ve recovered before the upcoming season.

The injuries made Vanderbilt inactive for most of the games and was a DNP in the Lakers’ season-ending Game 5 defect against the Denver Nuggets. As you can see, the situation is not in anyone’s favor. Jarred is a known talent, and to have him benched wasn’t in the LA Lakers’ plans for sure. Vanderbilt is one of those players you must watch play an entire game to understand his impact. His defensive ability on the wing makes him the kind of player every NBA team desperately wants and needs. But his lack of availability is putting a question mark on his reliability.

Jarred Vanderbilt’s injuries could open new doors for other players

The Lakers have found an asset in Jarred Vanderbilt. But in an action-packed sport like basketball, availability is a must. This is where Vando is failing. If the healthy question mark prevails for long, JJ Reddick‘s Los Angeles era could be a matter of concern. Jarred’s stats might not do justice to his impact in the games, but the team and the opponents know whom they’re dealing with. And to miss out on a player like this could be nothing but ill luck. In reality, Reddick is super thrilled to work with the wingman, “He can’t wait to coach” Jarred Vanderbilt, reports say.

But, if Vando truly misses the start of the 2024-25 season, there it’ll be a huge disappointment for the management and the fans alike. Meanwhile, the LA Lakers must look out for a possible replacement for the time being. Who is the best fit for Jarred Vanderbilt’s position? Maybe, Rui Hachimura. The Japanese small forward played an integral role in last season even when Vando was healthy. His offensive versatility had impressed the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Meanwhile, Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish could step up for Vanderbilt.

However, an impactful player like Vando is of utmost importance for the Lakers. Replacing him could do good, but if you’re looking for the mirror reflection of Vanderbilt, you wouldn’t find that. With no concrete updates available, the power forward’s 2024-25 season remains in darkness. His unique defensive prowess is crucially important for the Lakers’ squad and his absence could become a major reason for setback as this season begins.

The LA Lakers will surely have to adapt their game plan and evaluate the alternatives. Sitting back and waiting for the injuries to heal is not an option currently. Moreover, bringing Jarred Vanderbilt to the court before his recovery would be the worst decision. So, new ways and possibilities must be checked. A pretty unhappy push before the training camp and preseason, hopefully, the Lakers will look ahead and prepare for the upcoming season.