In the most recent setback for Los Angeles’ depth players due to injuries, Lakers center Christian Wood underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Tuesday. Regarding Wood’s recuperation from the procedure, which took place at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, the Lakers gave no time estimate.
However, it appears fairly likely that Wood, who hasn’t played since February 14th, will miss at least the remainder of the regular season due to the injury. The depth of what formerly appeared to be a strong supporting group surrounding LeBron James and Anthony Davis is being undermined by the Lakers (37-32) as they play without veterans Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Cam Reddish.
After appearing in just five games during his first season with the Lakers, Vincent had a knee injury in October, and Vanderbilt has been sidelined since February 1 due to a damaged right foot. It is probably not good news for their chances that the organization has not said when each veteran would be ready to return to the field.
Due to an ankle injury, Reddish hasn’t played since March 8; nonetheless, the Lakers anticipate a quick return. For the first time since joining the Lakers, Wood is averaging 6.9 points and 5.1 rebounds in 50 games this season. In the absence of Wood, Los Angeles’ backup center, Jaxson Hayes, has stepped up and played well. Despite their injury issues, the Lakers have still won 13 of their last 20 games.
They defeated Atlanta handily on Monday to maintain their ninth-place standing in the Western Conference playoff chase. James is having an exceptionally successful 21st NBA season, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.2 rebounds. D’Angelo Russell has been shooting excellently from outside the field since the middle of the season.