Lakers Rumors: Gabe Vincent on Track to Make Injury Return in March Amid Trade Buzz

Amid his reported inclusion in the Los Angeles Lakers' recent outgoing trade conversations, point guard Gabe Vincent is expected to make his return to the court in "early March," per Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer.

Vincent hasn't appeared in a game since Dec. 20 due to a left knee issue that required arthroscopic surgery, sidelining him for 8-10 weeks immediately following the procedure. However, he has been "recuperating on schedule" and is on track to return in March barring any setbacks (via Fischer).

Vincent has only appeared in five games this season due to the injury and subsequent surgery, averaging just 5.4 points and 3.0 assists per game off the bench on disappointing 37.5/11.8/50.0 shooting splits.

The Lakers were certainly expecting more after using their non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign the 27-year-old to a three-year, $33 million contract in July 2023 (via Spotrac). Vincent was coming off an impressive postseason run with the Miami Heat, helping the team reach the NBA Finals.

In 22 playoff starts during the 2022-23 season, he averaged 12.7 points and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 37.8 percent from three on 6.1 attempts each night.

With two more years left on his deal combined with the fact that he's never suited up in at least 70 games in a season, it doesn't seem as though opposing teams are lining up to trade for him. Instead, Los Angeles' front office could package Vincent with other assets for a notable player.

One such option could be Dejounte Murray, as Jovan Buha of The Athletic revealed that the Lakers have made Murray "their priority right now" in a Jan. 25 appearance on the HoopsHype podcast.

If the Hawks aren't interested in taking on the remainder of his contract, Los Angeles could also wait for his eventual return to the court and allow him to restore his trade value before exploring potential deals in the offseason.