One of the reasons the Los Angeles Lakers hold a mediocre 6-6 record more than three weeks into the 2023-24 season is injuries. They have been without LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Taurean Prince, Jaxson Hayes and Rui Hachimura at various times already, and they have clearly missed each player during their absences.
Another man who has been out is rookie guard Jalen Hood-Schifino. The No. 17 pick in June’s draft has yet to play this regular season because of a right patella contusion. Some fans have been intrigued by his potential and have wanted to see him on the court.
The good news is he is on the mend: He was seen going through full-court basketball drills on Tuesday.
Lakers rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino went through full court drills Tuesday morning. He’s yet to make his season debut, out with a right patella contusion. pic.twitter.com/bsQM0bz1Ng
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 14, 2023
Per Mike Trudell, he has started a “return-to-play progression.”
Injury update:
– Gabe Vincent (left knee effusion) will be re-evaluated once again in 2 weeks as he continues his rehabilitation.
– Jalen Hood-Schifino (right patella contusion) started a return-to-play progression after his own re-evaluation by team medical staff.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 16, 2023
Once the former Indiana University standout is cleared to play, he likely will not see much playing time, but spot duty during garbage time or a stint in the G League will do him plenty of good.