The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2024-25 season hoping Christian Wood would add depth and versatility to their roster. Wood was signed on a minimum deal with a player option above $3 million, so Wood was expected to strengthen the Lakers’ rebounding and three-point shooting.
However, injuries have severely limited his availability. Wood has played just 50 out of a possible 118 games since joining the Lakers, including missing significant stretches this season. The Lakers currently rank 27th in second-chance points allowed and near the bottom in bench scoring and rebounding, areas they expected Wood to improve.
When healthy, Wood has consistently delivered impressive numbers throughout his career. Between 2018-19 and 2022-23, he averaged 22.3 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 2.0 three-pointers per 36 minutes while shooting 52.0% from the field and 38.1% from beyond the arc. In the 2022-23 season, he averaged 18.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.8 three-pointers per game.
The Lakers (23-18) recently secured a 111-88 victory over the Washington Wizards. Wood’s absence has forced the team to rely heavily on Anthony Davis and their bench players to fill the gaps. While Davis has been stellar, delivering 29 points, 16 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks in the win against Washington, the team’s frontcourt depth remains a concern. Meanwhile, the Lakers prepare for a critical stretch of games, including a game against the Boston Celtics on January 25, without any clear updates on Wood’s status.
Lack Of Clarity On Christian Wood’s Return
Updates on Christian Wood’s recovery have been minimal. On December 30, reports from JJ Redick mentioned that Wood was participating in individual work after practice, but Jovan Buha highlighted the uncertainty surrounding his return, stating, “Christian Wood, there’s been no updates… no clue when or if he’s coming back.” Comparatively, teammate Jarred Vanderbilt, also recovering from injury, appears closer to returning to action. If Vanderbilt beats Wood back onto the court, it could severely limit Wood’s opportunities to re-establish himself in the rotation.
The Lakers face a critical decision regarding Wood’s future. With the trade deadline approaching, General Manager Rob Pelinka must determine whether to wait for Wood’s recovery or trade him while his contract still holds value. Wood’s offensive versatility, particularly his ability to stretch the floor and complement Davis, remains an asset.
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However, his injury history and inconsistent role with the Lakers cast doubt on his long-term fit. As LeBron James said after the win against Washington, “Defensively, we were great. We were in tune with what they wanted to do, what they tried to do. And offensively, we shared the ball, limited our turnovers. We were really good.” The Lakers, clinging to the sixth seed, face a ticking clock on Christian Wood, either he steps up or becomes a trade piece. A decision can’t be delayed any further.
Also Read: Will Christian Wood Play In The 2024-25 Season Opener? Latest Injury Update On The LA Lakers Forward
