Lakers News: Insider Predicts LA Fully Guarantees Contract Of New Role Player

Should they keep him?

When the Los Angeles Lakers made the trade deadline move to dump Russell Westbrook in exchange for D'Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt, there was one player that was seen as more of a throw in. Nobody knew what to expect from Vanderbilt as he had shown flashes but never quite put things together. But you could argue that he may have been one of the more impactful players coming back in the deal.

His energy and defense helped spark the team to reach the playoffs and now has a team option for next season. Yossi Gazlan of HoopsHype believes that the Lakers will guarantee the contract of Vanderebilt and bring him back next season.

Jarred Vanderbilt is on one of the most team-friendly contracts in the league. His low salary will help the Lakers toward deepening their roster while remaining flexible for bigger moves. He will be extension-eligible throughout 2023-24.

Per HoopsHype

This one is expected to be the easiest decision for the Lakers this offseason. Vanderbilt is on a very team friendly deal at just $4.6 million and he earned his keep with the team last season. The Lakers loved his energy and ability to play high level defense.

However, he was played off the court as the team went farther into the playoffs due to his limitations as a shooter. If Vanderbilt could get his three-point average up to even the NBA average standard, he would be a full time contributor for the Lakers.

It'll be exciting to see the growth of Vanderbilt next season with the Lakers and how he contributes. His length allow him to be extremely versatile and if he plays well again, the team will likely try to extend him long-term.

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