The Los Angeles Lakers endured a tough offseason with lack of actions on the trade block. But that doesn’t mean it will remain this way. Before the Lakers’ Press day for the 2024/25 season, Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick had their own press meet where the duo revealed some interesting information, including injury news and camp updates.

Answering the media, Rob Pelinka said, “Gabe Vincent and Rui are both clear for camp, so no issues there. In terms of Vando, you know, this offseason, he did have 2 procedures, 1 on each of his feet. The procedures were highly successful and he’s on a return to play program that so far has been lockstep and very promising, you know, led by our new director of performance, doctor Leroy Sims and his team.” He further mentioned how there are still processes for Jarred Vanderbilt to complete in his rehab before returning to the court.

“Christian Wood, on the same knee he had surgery on last season, he did have a separate cleanup surgery that went well, performed by doctor Chris Jones at, UCLA Health. And he’ll be reevaluated in 6 weeks and is progressing well,” the Lakers GM said.

The Purple and Gold will start their training camp on October 1. With Vanderbilt and Wood, the Lakers already have a thin roster for the preseason games. Vincent and Rui Hachimura’s availability somewhat relieves the pressure. This could give the opportunity to Jalen Hood-Schifino and new signing Christian Koloko to get more game time in the preseason and even early on in the regular season. There is optimism that Vando will be available for the opener on 22nd October against the Minnesota Timberwolves.  This is where trades become more essential for the Lakers. And for that, Rob Pelinka also has some plans.

Rob Pelinka reveals Lakers trade plan after silent offseason

Injury updates weren’t the only things Pelinka discussed during Wednesday’s press conference. He also hinted at potential trades and what the Lakers have to offer and acquire in those deals. According to Dave McMenamin, Rob Pelinka said that the team is open to trading their two available first-round picks if any deal they would be involved in can help secure “sustained Lakers excellence”. So far the Lakers have been inactive in the market and all of the big names have evaporated from free agency. Given the need and urgency, the Lakers historically have a record of going into the trade market and signing the player they want. But with the new CBA rules that’s relatively less feasible.

For now, D’Angelo Russell is all set to start as the point guard and during the presser, JJ Redick reiterated his faith in the 28-year-old. “He’s going to have a major role on this team. I think the thing that DLo and I have talked about a lot is just, ‘Let’s put you in a position to have a career year.’,” Reddick said when asked about what to expect of D’Lo this season.

Despite Reddick stating that Russell is the player he talked to the most during the offseason, his contract puts him at the top of the list of potential trade chips for the Lakers. Russell is going into the last year of his contract after deciding to opt in the player option. With the preseason starting on October 4 against the Timberwolves, the wait is almost over for the Lakers nation to see their favorite stars back on the court. But before that, some more revelation will come our way when Rob Pelinka faces the question again on media day.