Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes forward Jarred Vanderbilt is on track to help the club at both ends of the floor after a promising preseason stretch.
Vanderbilt, who has struggled to stay healthy since joining the Lakers, logged 13 productive minutes on Thursday before exiting with a quad contusion. The performance followed several strong outings earlier in the exhibition schedule.
Speaking after the game, Redick noted that Vanderbilt is “moving better than last season” and credited offseason work with player-development coach AJ Diggs for the improvement. The coach cited Vanderbilt’s ability to defend multiple positions, crash the boards, space the floor from the corners and cut against zones as key factors that could keep him on the court.
Redick added that the 6-foot-8 forward was forced to play center at times last season, a role he called “a tough spot” brought on by necessity. With Vanderbilt healthier and more comfortable, the coaching staff is emphasizing his playmaking from the corners and his willingness to push the pace in transition.
The Lakers have long valued Vanderbilt’s perimeter defense, but his limited shooting has occasionally allowed opponents to ignore him on offense. Redick said even moderate improvement on corner three-pointers—or the threat of a decisive cut or pass from those spots—would prevent Los Angeles from effectively playing four-on-five when Vanderbilt is on the floor.
Starting lineup still undecided
Redick is also weighing options for his fifth starter. Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, LeBron James and Deandre Ayton are considered secure in the opening group, while Vanderbilt, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia remain under consideration for the remaining spot. Redick said multiple factors—including on-court fit, matchup flexibility and preseason performance—will shape the final decision.
The Lakers open the regular season later this month, when Vanderbilt’s preseason progress and Redick’s lineup choices will be tested in games that count.
Source: LakersNation.com
