Even though the 2023–24 season is just getting started, the Los Angeles Lakers are already dealing with a number of rotation player injuries.
Due to left heel bursitis, Jarred Vanderbilt has not yet made his season debut. Meanwhile, Gabe Vincent was ruled out against the Los Angeles Clippers due to left knee soreness. Unexpectedly scratched during warmups due to knee discomfort was Taurean Prince.
Rui Hachimura was not available for the Lakers either because he was added to the NBA’s concussion protocol.
Fans were taken aback by Hachimura’s concussion diagnosis because he had been initially diagnosed with a left eye contusion that was keeping him day-to-day. Although the exact date of Hachimura’s injury is unknown, it appears that he is dealing with a much more serious issue than was first thought.
Darvin Ham gave an explanation of Hachimura’s concussion diagnosis prior to the Clippers game.
He saw the team doctors today as well as a specialist because his symptoms persisted. Taking things day by day and working through it. He had a consultation with a specialist today, and we will monitor his condition tomorrow.
Ham also explained why Hachimura’s initial evaluation for a concussion was not conducted.
“I believe that he became extremely light-sensitive after being poked in the eye. It appeared to be moving in one direction, but then other events and symptoms started to appear. Thus, he saw the specialist and our team physician out of caution, and it was determined that
Because of the NBA’s emphasis on player safety and health, Hachimura may miss additional time due to concussions, which can sideline a player for weeks at a time. Before they go on the road, Los Angeles has two days off, so there’s a chance Hachimura will suit up.
Ham will have to depend more on players like Christian Wood and Cam Reddish if he is forced to miss a few more games. The Lakers’ depth was their strength going into the new season, but with so many players out with injuries, it’s now being put to the test much earlier than expected.
