The Los Angeles Lakers have snatched their first win of the season on their home court against the Phoenix Suns. They achieved so, without the services of their forward, Jarred Vanderbilt due to an injury. Following the win, the 24-year-old has returned to practice ahead of their next opposition, the Sacramento Kings.

This has put forward the possibility of him starting against them. With the Lakers star nearing a return to the court, the question marks are over his presence to face the Kings.

Is Jarred Vanderbilt starting against the Kings?

The Texas-born attended the team practice since going out in the pre-season against the Golden State Warriors. He was seen working on his handles and participating in light sessions ahead of their second home game. Despite this, the Lakers nation must wait for his comeback a bit more than previously expected.

Vanderbilt’s injury was first thought of as a left heel soreness before Darvin Ham, ruled him out till the first game of the regular season. The head coach’s actions gave early indications of the seriousness of it which only got worse with time. Ahead of the Suns game, his injury reportedly turned out to be left heel bursitis, extending his unavailability.

One day after that, the medical team sidelined him for a further two weeks, before a scheduled re-evaluation. So, Jarred was only allowed to participate in training following recent improvements to his bursitis. Still, he would sit out the upcoming match against the Kings alongside at least six more regular season games.

This put the pressure entirely on the Lakers bench, as the time has come for them to step up. With all eyes on the reserve players, the supporters patiently wait for Vanderbilt’s return.

Can the Lakers cope with his absence?

The Lakers bench till now has received mixed reactions from the critics. Following a few changes in personnel, they seem to be still figuring things out. After a heartbreak in the season opener, they stood their ground well in the previous game.

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Christian Wood in particular enhanced the defensive prowess of the team with second second-highest rebounds. Their five substitutes together put up 32 points for them too. Thus, collectively, they could make up for the absence of their forward.

With a potential for upside being there, the fans would hope for the best out of Jarred’s current situation. Can they make the team effort count for the next two weeks too? Let us know in the comments below.

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