Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt said he is “pretty eager” to return to the lineup after watching eight of the past nine games from the bench despite being fully healthy.
The 26-year-old acknowledged his offensive shortcomings but believes his defense can address the club’s recent struggles on that end. “A lot of the stuff we lack, I think I can help provide,” Vanderbilt told reporters after Saturday’s practice.
Head coach JJ Redick recently indicated that if the team’s defensive slide continues, Vanderbilt is likely to receive another opportunity. The Lakers have shifted toward an offense-heavy rotation this season, leaving defensive-minded players such as Vanderbilt on the sidelines.
Asked about communication with the coaching staff, Vanderbilt said discussions have been sporadic. “Kind of here and there,” he noted, adding that he is focused on “control what I can control, keep showing up to work, doing my work, supporting the team.”
During a recent film session following a loss to the San Antonio Spurs, coaches showed players footage from the past 10 games, highlighting lapses in aggression, physicality and transition defense. “It’s a lot of stuff we can control,” Vanderbilt recalled.
The forward last appeared in uniform on Nov. 8, 2025, warming up at State Farm Arena in Atlanta before a matchup with the Hawks. He has not logged significant minutes since.
With Los Angeles continuing to search for defensive answers, Vanderbilt’s return could come sooner rather than later.
Source: LakersNation.com
