Good news, Los Angeles Lakers fans — Kyle Kuzma is on the verge of making his return.
Kuzma, who has been dealing with a foot injury since participating in the FIBA World Cup with Team USA in August, is now progressing towards a return. The 24-year-old forward has been doing four-on-four work in practice — although he still hasn't participated in fullcourt five-on-five work just yet.
Kyle Kuzma did more four on four today. He said he did about 10 minutes the other day and 25 today. Unclear how close he is to five on five, but he’s been reacting well.
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) October 27, 2019
The Lakers have been forced to play a makeshift starting five in the absence of Kuzma — the team's normal starting small forward. Over the first two games, the Lakers have gone with a starting five featuring the likes of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, JaVale McGee, Danny Green and Avery Bradley.
With that said, head coach Frank Vogel refused to commit to Kuzma as a starter once he makes his return — leaving the possibility open that Kuzma could return as a sixth man.
However, Vogel did state that Kuzma will play at least 30 minutes per game — whether he's a starter or a sixth man.
Via Anthony Irwin of Silver Screen and Roll:
“He could also be a starter for us, or he could be a sixth man candidate. Once he gets to playing with these guys, we’ll see what kind of combinations look good together, and we’ll make that decision at that time,” Vogel told reporters.
“Kyle’s the kind of guy who can play with anybody. He’s going to be a major factor for us, a 30-minute per game type guy. Whether that’s starting or off the bench, it doesn’t really matter… He’s a major player for us.”
The third-year forward is expected to be able to participate in full-contact work as soon as next week.
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