Our NBA insider shares the latest intel on growing frustration in Los Angeles and the ever-developing Jimmy Butler situation.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been a relatively healthy team this season, but they've had one crucial part of their system missing since 2023. It was revealed by

Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt has reportedly been medically cleared to make his season debut vs. the Golden State Warriors.

Vanderbilt was originally acquired by the Lakers in a February 2023 trade that sent out Russell Westbrook and also brought them guards D'Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley. The 6-foot-8 forward quickly became a fan favorite because of his effective and versatile defense, as well as the overall energy he brought to the team.

The Lakers are relying on a mix of veterans and young prospects to round out the rotation and provide meaningful minutes to a championship contender, which may not be the best recipe for a team consisting of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Could LeBron James and Anthony Davis' growing concerns lead to a Lakers' potential move on a former No. 2 pick?

The Lakers will have to bring the best version of themselves against their ultimate rivals, the Celtics on Thursday

All of this is to say that the Lakers are by no means a sure thing to compete for a title in their current position, something that JJ Redick and James admitted to varying extents last week. And apparently,