NBA: Whatever happened to Gabe Vincent?
Gabe Vincent has been sidelined since 20 December 2023. But the Nigerian guard for the Lakers is set to return in the next few days
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It's easy to forget, but Gabe Vincent is indeed a Los Angeles Lakers player. It's just that the Nigerian guard has been out since December 2023, because of a knee problem that hampered him early in the season. Faced with the issue, the Lakers decided to operate. Initially expected to last between 6 and 8 weeks, the 27-year-old's absence dragged on. Today, 28 March 2024, the former Miami man has still not returned to the court. Even so, the end of the tunnel is in sight.
For the past few days, reports have pointed to an imminent return. According to insider Marc Stein, Gabe Vincent should be back in action before the end of the regular season, which finishes on 14 April. That leaves only a few days to get Vincent back. The Lakers must be rubbing their hands. Last season, the Nigerian shone in the play-offs with Miami, with his 3-pointers and top-class performances helping the team reach the NBA Finals. The 27-year-old, who signed a 3-year, $27 million contract in the summer of 2023, has played just 05 games this season, averaging 5.4 points, with 37% shooting from the field and 11% from three. Currently 9th in the Western Conference, the Lakers are likely to have to play in the play-in tournament to reach the play-offs, and so will need their guard back.
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Against the Nets to get the machine going again?
The comeback could come as soon as this Sunday, 31 March. That is at least what The Athletic is reporting, saying Gabe Vincent should be part of the Lakers' trip to Brooklyn. It is a return eagerly awaited to help the Lakers in a breathless end to the season.
First, defensively, Gabe Vincent will be a considerable asset for the Lakers. Then, offensively, his ability to run the offence, find space for his teammates and take responsibility with his shooting will all be benefits for LeBron James's teammates. See you on Sunday for the Nigerian's big return.
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