The Los Angeles Lakers are optimistic about Cam Reddish’s availability for Friday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Crypto.com Arena, according to head coach Darvin Ham. Reddish, who has been dealing with a right ankle sprain, participated in practice on Wednesday, leading Ham to anticipate his return to the lineup.
Reddish has faced multiple setbacks due to injuries this season, appearing in only five games since January 23. Despite returning on February 28, he experienced further issues after just four appearances, causing him to miss the subsequent four games. In total, Reddish has sat out 29 games in the 2023-24 season due to various injuries, maintaining an average of 6.2 points per game with a 34.3% success rate from beyond the arc over 40 appearances.
READ ALSOLakers Face Hawks Shorthanded in Play-In Battle
The Lakers are currently lacking in defensive assets, with Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt still recovering from knee surgery and a foot sprain, respectively. Ham noted positive progress in their rehabilitation efforts on Wednesday, dismissing rumors suggesting they could be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Ham emphasized the defensive prowess of these players, highlighting their abilities to disrupt opponents’ plays, generate steals, and contribute on both ends of the floor.
Vincent, who has only played five games this season due to a left knee issue, is undergoing a promising individual recovery process. Similarly, Vanderbilt, who has been limited to 29 games due to various lower-leg injuries, is working towards a return to action, although no specific timeline has been provided.
Vanderbilt’s absence has been particularly felt by the Lakers, as his defensive contributions and ability to transition from defense to offense seamlessly have been crucial to the team’s success. His return, along with that of Vincent and Reddish, would provide a much-needed boost to the Lakers’ lineup.
READ ALSOStruggling Lakers Brace for Hawks Clash: Injury Woes Mount in Western Conference Showdown
