The Los Angeles Lakers‘ late-season resurgence is becoming a theme for the post-season. In the last ten games, the ‘Lake Show’ has a record of 9-1, making their intentions clear before they head into the play-in tournament. However, an update on their defensive powerhouse Jared Vanderbilt, who has been out since February, threatens to derail the Laker’s momentum.

On the latest episode of ‘First Take’, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith shared the update. “The biggest trepidation that I have is I checked in the other day, and I’m hearing that Vanderbilt ain’t gonna be back. It’s not looking good. They’re not ruling it out totally, but there’s some serious doubt,” said Smith.

The 24-year-old’s return was a tremendous reason for anticipation among the fans. With only 20 minutes of playing time a night, he averages 4.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals, so his absence will be apparent in the post-season. However, Stephen A. Smith isn’t losing faith in the Lakers.

“Defensive rating is at number six, that and two since March 18th, reminiscent to what they did last year when they made that run at the end of the season going into the playoffs, and now they’re about 12, you know, 11 games or so over 500. I got to respect what I’m seeing from the Los Angeles Lakers and say yo, they got a shot to go back to the Conference Finals,” said Smith. However, can Stephen A. Smith’s hope translate into playoff wins?

Assessing the Lakers Post-season chances

Currently, the Lakers are in the ninth spot, which can change to 8th very easily as they are just one defeat ahead of the Sacramento Kings. Even if they remain in the 9th spot, the chances of them beating Golden State remain high given their history last year of plowing through them in the second round. The second game, in the play-in, should also be a breeze for them, which will either be against the Kings or the New Orleans Pelicans.

The problem for Los Angeles starts in the first round of the playoffs in which they will either face the Minnesota Timberwolves or the Denver Nuggets. In the first scenario, the Lakers might blow by because of the playoff experience of LeBron James and their team, but if they get the Nuggets, the chances are of elimination. Last year, they swept Bron and Co in the West finals to win their first chip in history. However, LBJ and Anthony Davis may have revenge on their mind.

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Jarred Vanderbilt Comeback: Positive News From Lakers’ 18 Game Absentee With Playoffs Nearby