Jarred Vanderbilt Injury Update: Lakers coach JJ Redick seemingly offers return timeline for defensive star

Jarred Vanderbilt has not played for the LA Lakers since February 2024. The defensive ace dealt with injuries and had offseason surgeries on both feet, which delayed his return. JJ Redick announced in December that the forward had already started non-contact work.

On Monday, Redick spoke to reporters ahead of the Lakers’ clash with the San Antonio Spurs. NBA insider Jovan Buha reported the latest on Vanderbilt after Redick’s press conference:

“JJ Redick says Jarred Vanderbilt is progressing and getting close to returning but won’t be back this week.”

Redick said that Vanderbilt is ramping up his conditioning. The coach added that the Lakers have been extra cautious with their injured forward.

Vando last played for the Lakers on Feb. 1 against the Boston Celtics. He finished the game with four points, two rebounds and one steal in 21 minutes. The Lakers ruled him out for their next game with a foot injury.

The Lakers missed the hustle and defense Vanderbilt brought to the table. Before the trade deadline, they addressed the issue by trading D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith. Although DFS is now on the roster, JJ Redick can still use whatever Vanderbilt can contribute.

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JJ Redick sent Jarred Vanderbilt to the G League for added on-court work

Following a 118-97 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, the LA Lakers returned to Los Angeles for a five-game home stand. Games against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday and the San Antonio Spurs on Friday were postponed due to the wildfires.

Before the Hornets game, Redick sent Vanderbilt to the South Bay Lakers for added on-court work. Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported:

"Jarred Vanderbilt has been assigned to the South Bay Lakers, the team announced. South Bay practices this morning before the Lakers do, so it gives Vanderbilt a chance to get in extra court time as he continues his progression towards a return."

Vando did not play in the G League Lakers’ 113-107 loss to the Stockton Kings on Friday. But, he continued to work on his game behind closed doors with the coaching staff.