UPDATE: Lakers guard Gabe Vincent is set to miss two to four weeks following an MRI revealing a sprained left ankle, as confirmed by ESPN sources. Vincent sustained the injury during the third quarter of the Lakers’ 127-120 victory over the Sacramento Kings on October 8, 2023.
The injury occurred while Vincent was making a play on the court, forcing him to leave the game in a walking boot. Fortunately, X-rays taken post-game returned negative, but he arrived at the Crypto.com Arena on crutches for the Lakers’ matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Vincent, who has been a crucial starter in place of LeBron James, averaging 16.3 points on 47.4% shooting during the season’s opening games, will now add to the Lakers’ already significant injury woes. James is sidelined due to sciatica affecting his lower back, expected to miss at least three to four weeks as well.
The Lakers faced immense challenges against the Blazers, with only seven full-time players available, including Austin Reaves, who recently exploded for a career-high 51 points against the Kings. Coach JJ Redick expressed that while the team doesn’t expect Reaves to replicate that performance, they are focused on playing with intensity and determination amidst the setbacks.
In addition to Vincent and James, the Lakers also dealt with other key absences. Marcus Smart was out due to a right quad contusion, Luka Doncic missed his second consecutive game with a left finger sprain and lower leg contusion, and Jaxson Hayes remains out with left patellar tendinopathy. The team has yet to see contributions from Maxi Kleber and rookie Adou Thiero, who are also not available due to injuries.
As the Lakers navigate this turbulent start to the season, fans are left wondering how the team will adapt to these significant absences. The immediate focus will be on upcoming games, where L.A. must rely on the remaining players to step up in the face of adversity.
Stay tuned for further updates on Vincent’s recovery and the Lakers’ performance as they adjust their strategies with an ever-changing lineup.
