5 Lakers on Thin Ice Heading Into the NBA Draft

5. Gabe Vincent, PG/SG

Christian Wood wasn't the Lakers' only 2023 offseason signing that failed to live up to expectations.

The franchise also added to their point guard depth last summer by adding Gabe Vincent on a three-year, $33 million contract. It seemed like a decent move at the time given that the ex-UC Santa Barbara had been improving with each passing NBA season and many hoped he could take the next step by moving to Los Angeles.

But much like Vanderbilt and Wood, Vincent battled with injuries throughout the 2023-24 season. He only played one game between November 1 and March 29, held to a total of 11 appearances due to a serious knee injury. It wasn't the way that he expected his Lakers tenure to begin.

Much to his dismay, though, Vincent's injuries limited how efficient he was when he was healthy enough to play. He averaged the worst stat line (3.1 PTS/1.9 AST/0.8 REB) and shooting splits (.306/.107/.500) of his five-year career and was even worse in the playoffs, putting up 1.4 points and 1.6 rebounds while shooting 25.0% from the field and 14.3% from outside. That's without mentioning how he finished three of the Lakers' five playoff games with zero points.

With Vincent slated to make $11 million next season, it's time for the Lakers to consider trading him. That's just too much money for the 28-year-old production (or lack thereof) and his bout with injuries has many wondering if he has what it takes to return to his old form. Even if it's for an underwhelming return, Los Angeles would be better off freeing themselves from his albatross of a deal.

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