Jarred Vanderbilt Urges Lakers to “Hold Down the Fort” While LeBron Recovers
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Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt said the team must stay competitive until LeBron James returns from a bout with sciatica that is expected to sideline the star at the start of the regular season.
Speaking to reporters after practice on Monday, Vanderbilt acknowledged the difficulty James faces in joining the lineup mid-season. “It’s tough trying to play catch-up and get integrated mid-season,” he said, noting that even a veteran such as James will need time to regain rhythm. “We just gotta hold the fort down until he comes back.”
James, 40, is projected to miss opening night for the first time in his 22-year NBA career. Head coach JJ Redick will rely on Vanderbilt’s defense and energy, which have been evident throughout the preseason, to offset the absence of the four-time MVP.
Vanderbilt, 25, knows the challenge firsthand: injuries delayed his season debuts in each of the past two years. “It’s an adjustment coming in mid-season and integrating yourself into what the team has already built,” he said.
Focus on Perimeter Defense
The 6-foot-8 forward expects to spend most of his minutes guarding wings this season after covering bigger frontcourt players last year due to roster shortages. “I feel comfortable being on the ball,” Vanderbilt explained. “Whether it’s pressuring full court or blowing up a play before it even happens, I think causing havoc sets the tone for everybody.” He added that new teammate Marcus—presumably guard Marcus Smart—will share those duties.
Until James is cleared, Vanderbilt and the rest of the roster aim to keep the Lakers competitive so the league’s all-time leading scorer can “hit the ground running” upon his return.
Source: Lakers Nation
