The Los Angeles Lakers need to find the perfect complementary players for Luka Doncic. They’ve pivoted their franchise to maximizing Luka’s window and bringing another championship to Los Angeles. That’s why Lakers trade rumors continue despite the team indicating they are happy with how their roster currently looks.
RB Hayek of ClutchPoints added flames to the Lakers trade rumors by naming the “3 way-too-early Los Angeles Lakers trade candidates in 2025-26 season”
Hayek predicted that one of the Lakers’ most athletic pieces could be on his way out this season.
“Jarred Vanderbilt may be out of time in LA. Sadly, the Lakers forward is just not cutting it. He averaged 4.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game during the 2024-25 season while shooting 48.8 percent from the hardwood. However, Vanderbilt only averaged 1.4 points per game during the playoffs and shot 33.3 percent over five games.
The only benefits that Vanderbilt gives the purple and gold are his strong perimeter defending. Unfortunately, he is limited offensively. Coach JJ Reddick may want another option if his offense does not keep pace with his defense. Vanderbilt has a $10.7 million contract that runs through next season. However, there is a chance the Lakers will trade him to get different players that could give them a well-rounded game.”
It wouldn’t be crazy for the Lakers to consider a Jarred Vanderbilt trade. Despite the high potential he once showed, Vanderbilt’s career hasn’t continued on its once exciting path.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Could the Lakers get much in a Vanderbilt trade? Probably not. Still, opening a roster spot to a player with more offensive potential and a cleaner injury history could make a huge difference down the line for the Lakers’ roster.
More NBA: Lakers trade idea lands team their former star 6th man from long-time rival team
