Underperforming: Gabe Vincent
Vincent was the Lakers' marquee offseason addition. He got the majority of their mid-level exception in a three-year contract worth $33 million. The 6’3 guard helped the Heat reach the NBA Finals in 2023 and was a needed ball-handler and playmaker in Los Angeles. Vincent appeared to be a strong fit, but things have not gone as planned.
He played in the Lakers' first four games before suffering an injury that kept him out for two months. In his first contest back, Vincent played just under 14 minutes before being sidelined again. He had knee surgery, but his return timetable is unclear heading into the break.
The Lakers certainly regret signing him at this point. Vincent has played just 127 total minutes this season and will likely remain out after the All-Star break. Rob Pelinka and the front office explored trading him, but there was no market.
The 27-year-old needs to get healthy and back in the lineup. Until then, it is strictly a waiting game. Gabe Vincent was a starter in the NBA Finals just eight months ago. The potential still exists for him to live up to his contract, but it has not happened yet. He has left the Lakers a ball-handler and playmaker short for most of the season.