The Los Angeles Lakers are bolstering their roster this offseason, and according to recent NBA rumours, they aim to trigger a $4.7 million clause to keep centre Jarred Vanderbilt. This revelation has sparked enthusiasm among Lakers supporters, as Vanderbilt has demonstrated promise in terms of skill set and potential.
Lakers’ decision to retain him shows the team’s faith in his progress and the importance they place on his efforts on the court. Retaining Vanderbilt might be an important move for the Lakers as they try to mould their roster for the next season.
Jarred Vanderbilt’s performance at the Lakers
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the LA Lakers have made a potential move by exercising their team option on Jarred Vanderbilt for the 2023-24 season. Vanderbilt has had a huge influence on both sides of the court since joining the Lakers in a trade. Measuring, 6’9″, he has demonstrated his abilities by averaging 7.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. The Vandalorian’s effect has been most obvious as a starter, having started 37 of the Lakers’ 41 regular-season and playoff games.
The 24 years old’s effort were critical to the team’s late-season surge, in which they went 18-8 in their final 26 regular-season games. The Vandalorian’s contributions in the playoffs were critical in triumphs against formidable opponents such as the Memphis Grizzlies and the GSW. Despite the fact that their playoff run ended in the Western Conference finals against the Denver Nuggets, number 8’s consistent play was notable.
By exercising Vanderbilt’s team option, the Lakers have displayed their confidence in his potential and value to the team. This decision also paves the way for a possible contract extension, illustrating the organization’s commitment to keeping Vanderbilt as an essential part of their roster. With his versatile skill set and consistent performance, Vanderbilt has proven himself as a valuable asset to the Lakers, and his future with the team looks promising.
Is bringing back Jarred Vanderbilt a good idea for the Lakers?
The Los Angeles Lakers have begun their offseason preparations by exercising Jarred Vanderbilt’s $4.7 million team option, a decision that has generated debate over the franchise’s value. During the Lakers’ revival last season, Vanderbilt was a defensive force and a vital player.
Speaking of expected LAL moves, the Lakers plan to exercise the $4.7 million team option for Jarred Vanderbilt for next season, sources told ESPN. The 24-year-old forward will be eligible for a contract extension extension worth up to 4 years and $71 million starting Sept. 7.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) June 28, 2023
Vanderbilt was frequently assigned to guard the opposition team’s best perimeter players, demonstrating his flexibility and physical playing style. In the playoffs, his defensive heroics against players like Ja Morant and Steph Curry were critical to the Lakers’ victory.
The Vandalorian’s presence, along with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, gave the Lakers a strong frontcourt, helping them to a top-three defensive ranking after the deadline. With reports claiming Vanderbilt is eligible for a 4 year, $71 million contract extension, the Lakers must decide whether to keep him as a long-term asset.
Vanderbilt, who is only 24 years old, has the caliber to be an integral component of the Lakers core moving forward. Furthermore, his progress as a three-point shooter adds to his game’s value.
The Lakers’ choice to keep The Vandalorian allows them to evaluate his worth and determine the best long-term contract offer for him throughout the upcoming season. Bringing back Vanderbilt appears to be a good option for the Lakers, given his defensive abilities and potential for additional development.
