Jarred Vanderbilt was cleared to play 2 weeks ago, this is what happened

The only Lakers player who hasn't been able to play a single minute in the season so far has been Jarred Vanderbilt, as the rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino got his NBA debut in the blowout loss to the 76ers on Monday night.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been able to stay afloat in the standings during the 2023-24 season despite enduring several injuries to the roster. Jarred Vanderbilt remains out as he works his way back from left heel bursitis.

Vando's injury has taken longer than everyone expected as he was set to make his debut on opening night and now we are almost 20 games in the campaign and he continues to progress through the rehab process. It has taken longer than expected as he was cleared for a return-to-play progression almost two weeks ago and still has not been able to play or been close to it.

Coach Darvin Ham explained why it's taking longer than expected, via Dan Woike of LA Times: “Darvin Ham said Jarred Vanderbilt is ramping up in small segments of 2-on-2 and 3-on-3, which is a progression. He hasn't played this season because of hell-bursitis.”

The Lakers have been affected by injuries early in the season

There hasn't been a single game that coach Ham has his team complete and available so that has hurt the team's energy as several players have been in and out.