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Guard Gabe Vincent, whom the Los Angeles Lakers signed to a three-year, $33 million contract last summer, was expected to be a key contributor. But he has dealt with a knee issue all season and has appeared in just five games as a result.
He underwent a procedure in late December, and he has been slowly progressing in his rehab this month. Still, despite several positive reports about his rehab, plenty of Lakers fans have had a cynical attitude about Vincent’s potential return this season.
But with the team in the midst of a six-game road trip, his return seems to be imminent. He will reportedly join it in Indiana on Friday and is expected to be available to play on Sunday when it takes on the Brooklyn Nets.
Lakers guard Gabe Vincent is scheduled to join team during current road trip and is expected to be available to play vs. the Nets on Sunday barring setback, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Vincent has been out since Dec. 20 due to knee surgery. pic.twitter.com/qIWF6mbHJB
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 28, 2024
The Lakers have been soft defensively on the perimeter for most of this season. If nothing else, Vincent’s return would give them a boost in that department with the postseason nearing.