JJ Redick Sees Pre-Injury Form in Healthy Jarred Vanderbilt
jj-redick-sees-pre-injury-form-in-healthy-jarred-vanderbilt
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said this week that Jarred Vanderbilt is moving like his “pre-injury” self as the team opens training camp for the 2025-26 season.
“It looks like we do have the pre-injury version of Vando,” Redick told reporters, adding that Vanderbilt’s footwork and agility are “night and day” compared with the end of last season. The coach credited the forward’s offseason work after foot surgery the previous summer.
Redick noted that a healthy Vanderbilt, alongside newcomer Marcus Smart, should allow the Lakers to apply earlier ball pressure on defense. “I think our ability to put more pressure on the basketball earlier in the defensive possession will be a real thing,” he said.
Vanderbilt, 26, was part of the 2023 trade that sent Russell Westbrook to Utah and eventually to the Clippers. While initially viewed as a throw-in, he developed into an energetic reserve noted for defense, hustle plays and rebounding. Injury issues limited him during the 2024-25 campaign, when he was often forced to play center because of roster constraints.
According to Redick, returning Vanderbilt to perimeter duties should maximize his speed and help the Lakers’ second unit. “Getting him back on the perimeter, his body being in a good place from an athleticism and agility standpoint, will be super helpful for our team,” he said.
Vanderbilt’s influence extends beyond the court. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards recently named him the teammate he misses most, underscoring the forward’s reputation as a valued locker-room presence.
Source: LakersNation.com
