Sat Oct 05 04:48:27 UTC 2024: ## Lakers’ Hood-Schifino Ready for Full Season After Back Surgery

Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Jalen Hood-Schifino is fully recovered from back surgery he underwent in March and is ready to contribute to the team this season. The former Indiana University standout, who was selected 17th overall in the 2023 NBA draft, is a full participant in training camp and expected to be part of the team’s rotation.

Hood-Schifino, who impressed during his brief stint with the Lakers last season before his injury, has been working diligently to get back on the court. He revealed that the surgery involved a lumbar microdiscectomy, a common procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.

“I think overall for me having back surgery March 21st, I think the main goal was just to get healthy and get my back feeling good,” Hood-Schifino said. “It was a great offseason, long offseason. But I’m feeling healthy now and obviously being in the gym with Coach JJ and the rest of the staff has been great. They built a culture here, especially for us young guys getting in and grinding so this summer was really good for me and the other young guys.”

Before the injury, Hood-Schifino was putting up impressive numbers in the G League, averaging 22 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. He is excited to build on that momentum in his sophomore season.

Lakers head coach J.J. Redick is confident in Hood-Schifino’s potential and expects him to be a key player for the team. “He’s a talented young player, and we’re excited to see what he can do this year,” Redick said.

With Hood-Schifino back in the fold, the Lakers are looking to make a strong push for the playoffs this season. The team is eager to see what their young guard can bring to the table, and his recovery will be a major boost for their overall success.

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