The LA Lakers star is set to return after missing 68 games

Gabe Vincent is expected to finally return to the court and help his team fight for the NBA title this season. NBA fans will be aware that Vincent made quite a name for himself by helping the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals last season. The Los Angeles Lakers saw enough value in Gabe to acquire him this offseason. However, this acquisition did not prove to be good at this time.

Fans who have been watching Lakers games this season will be aware that Vincent has just been on the court with the team and has been plagued with injuries. Now that he is expected to make a much-awaited comeback, one might want to know details about his current status as well as his performance so far this season.

Gabe Vincent averaged 5.4 points and 3 a*sists in his 5 games with the Lakers

Some Lakers fans may be shocked to hear that Gabe Vincent has only played in 5 games out of 72 games for the Lakers so far this season. That meant he missed 68 games and was out for nearly the entire season. As some may know Vincent injured his knee and had to undergo surgery. This was followed by a long rehabilitation period, which explains his extended and unexpected absence from the team.

Even when Vincent was healthy and on the court for the Lakers, it would be unfair to claim he had a radically positive impact on the team. Especially when compared to his previous work with the Miami Heat. Gabe has averaged 5.3 points, 3 a*sists and 1 rebound in the 5 games he has played so far as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers.

These numbers are somewhat disappointing, to say the least. However, reports revealed that he is on his way back and is expected to suit up for the Lakers’ upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets. While the Lakers are still missing several players on their roster, having Vincent back would certainly seem like good news.

Gabe Vincent is scheduled to join the Lakers on their road trip and is expected to be available for Sunday’s game against the Nets, barring a concussion. @Shamscharania.

Vincent has been out since December 20th with knee surgery and has only played in 5 games this season. pic.twitter.com/PJG2xbhSMG

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 28, 2024

With the Lakers currently ranked 9th in the Western Conference, there’s no denying that they could use any extra firepower that Vincent can provide. However, fans wonder if bringing him back this season will help or hurt the Lakers.

Will Vincent’s return from knee surgery affect the Lakers’ recent momentum?

Although the Lakers hold the 9th place in the Western Conference, there is no denying that the team is playing very well and pulled off a great double overtime win against the Milwaukee Bucks. Additionally, the Western Conference is incredibly competitive and the Lakers are just 2 wins behind the 6th seed Dallas Mavericks.

Considering that the team has been playing well recently, fans might consider bringing back Vincent at this point. All in all, D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves are playing pretty well. Therefore, reducing their playing minutes and giving Vincent floor time may not be the best call. Especially since he’s coming off knee surgery and obviously won’t be in form. Regardless, only time will tell how the Lakers use Gabe Vincent.