Los Angeles Lakers are optimistic about Jarred Vanderbilt's return

The Los Angeles Lakers' season has been struck by numerous injuries that have threatened to derail their chance of reaching the playoffs. And, this year, the injuries haven't concerned LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Instead, it's been others like Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Christian Wood who have been sidelined.

However, there is a belief that Vanderbilt and Vincent could be back before the regular season ends next month. And there is even more of a consensus that Vanderbilt will return before Vincent.

Jovan Buha reported about the team's thoughts around Vanderbilt and Vincent for The Athletic:

"There is less clarity with Vanderbilt and Vincent. Neither has been ruled out for the rest of the season, but of the two, there is more internal optimism that Vanderbilt will return before the regular season ends next month, according to team and league sources. If either or both players had been healthy, they may have altered the direction of the Lakers’ season."

The return of Vanderbilt could greatly help the Lakers as they attempt to shake off an up-and-down regular season and make a strong push into the postseason. He would be a defensive powerhouse for the team, adding much-needed perimeter pressure to opponents.

Vincent would also be a huge help, if he looked like the version of himself that Miami Heat fans fell in love with last year. Vincent has only played in five games this season and didn't deliver on expectations that Lakers fans had. But if he was healthy, he could add a boost of energy and versatility on offense.

For the season, Vanderbilt has averaged 5.2 points and 4.8 points on 51.8% from the floor. But he last played at the beginning of February, when a foot injury sidelined him.

Just last week, there were rumors that both Vanderbilt and Vincent wouldn't return to the Lakers at all this season but it sounds like there is growing optimism that both will be back when the team needs them most.