Lakers may unleash upgraded Jarred Vanderbilt if whispers are real

Jarred Vanderbilt, known for his defensive abilities, is aiming to move past an injury-plagued period with the Los Angeles Lakers. NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Vanderbilt is currently healthier than at any point during the previous season, sparking optimism that he will resemble a new offseason addition when training camp begins. This development is significant for a Lakers team needing depth after an early playoff exit.

Vanderbilt joined the Lakers during the 2022-23 season as part of the trade that moved Russell Westbrook. Now 26, he is the only player remaining in Los Angeles from that deal, as D'Angelo Russell was later traded and Malik Beasley was not re-signed. His initial defensive impact was strong enough to quickly earn him a four-year, $48 million contract extension.

However, Vanderbilt's inability to stay healthy since then, particularly after the Lakers' 2023 Western Conference Finals run, led to frequent speculation about his contract in mock trades. While his 2023 playoff averages (4.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 0.8 blocks, 0.7 steals) were modest, his value stemmed from his elite perimeter isolation defense, consistently graded A- or better in recent seasons and reaching A+ in 2024.

A healthy Vanderbilt is seen as crucial for the Lakers' 2025-26 season. Even with the addition of Marcus Smart to bolster team defense, Vanderbilt's size, length, and versatility are considered vital for handling specific tough defensive matchups. The Lakers greatly desire his defensive contributions at his best, acknowledging his offensive limitations.