What happened to Gabe Vincent? Lakers Suffer Another Injury Setback as Starter Limps off vs. Kings (Oct. 26)

The Lakers suffered another major injury setback after Gabe Vincent exited Sunday's contest against the Kings after rolling his ankle. Coming into this game, LA had already suffered a blow with Luka Doncic joining LeBron James on the sidelines for a week with a left leg contusion and left finger injury.

Vincent was filling in as the fifth starter in James' absence, so that leaves coach JJ Redick with even more limitations with his lineups and combinations ahead of a rough schedule. LA plays again on Monday against the Trail Blazers on the second night of a back-to-back.

Vincent played through the third quarter, scoring three points, one rebound and one assist, shooting 0-for-4.

The Lakers announced in the fourth quarter that Gabe Vincent won't return to the game, citing a left ankle sprain. While LA didn't lose much due to Vincent's lack of production, the absence of another ball-handler when Austin Reaves headed to the bench heavily impacted the team.

Marcus Smart is the only other playmaker and ball-handler available for the Lakers for Sunday's game and that could be the case on Monday against the Trail Blazers, too.

Lakers' Gabe Vincent gives encouraging injury update but could miss time

Gabe Vincent gave an encouraging update after the game, saying his X-rays returned negative. However, Vincent was in a walking boot, which suggests he could miss time with his injury.

The Lakers are running out of options from a playmaking and ball-handling perspective, with Austin Reaves as their only reliable option. He had 51 points and nine assists on Sunday, but it wasn't easy. The Kings could trouble him with their ball pressure. While Reaves managed it for one night, there's uncertainty over his ability to do the same every game.

Monday, especially, could be a difficult one against the Trail Blazers, as they are leaning into their defensive identity. Steve Kerr, Anthony Edwards and James Harden have all praised them for it.

LA might have to lean into its two-way options. Nick Smith Jr. can be a handy contributor in Gabe Vincent's absence as a backup ball-handler, while Marcus Smart can be the secondary ball-handler.