The Los Angeles Lakers’ rookie guard, Jalen Hood-Schifino, underwent a successful lumbar microdiscectomy procedure, the team announced. This minimally invasive surgery aims to address a bulging disc, as explained by Johns Hopkins Medicine.
However, the team did not specify a timeline for his return, promising further updates as necessary.
Following the procedure, Hood-Schifino will sit out the remainder of the season, with a typical recovery period ranging from 2 to 3 months. His participation in the summer league remains uncertain, as the team anticipates a full recovery during the offseason.
Despite logging 21 appearances with the Lakers this season, mostly in mop-up duty, Hood-Schifino primarily honed his skills in the G League with the South Bay Lakers. In 15 games, he showcased impressive stats, averaging 22 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, boasting a 43.2% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.
While Hood-Schifino struggled to secure a spot in the Lakers’ rotation, the team has been optimistic about his progress, acknowledging his potential since the beginning of training camp.
Drafted 17th overall last year from Indiana, he previously earned recognition as the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, boasting notable averages of 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 32 games.
