After joining the Lakers at the trade deadline, Jarred Vanderbilt played a key part in helping breathe life back into a flatlining season for Los Angeles.
Almost instantly slotted into the starting lineup, Vanderbilt flashed the strengths he brought to the table. At roughly 6’8” and nimble on his feet, the 24-year-old provided some much needed defensive flexibility on the perimeter — as his length and hot motor stood out on a roster that prior to the makeover, lacked both consistently.
Thanks to his physical gifts and focus, Vanderbilt swiftly became the Lakers’ Swiss Army Knife when it came to defensive matchups.