The Los Angeles Lakers have made another signing. They have signed a forward to a four-year, $48 million contract deal, further solidifying their squad for the future. Shams Charania of The Athletic reported the news, stating that the contract contains full guarantees and a player option for the final year. Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and agent Erika Ruiz have even given confirmation of this news.

The 24-year-old forward proved himself in the match against the Warriors by giving a hard time to Stephen Curry. This is what gained the Lakers’ trust, and they made an offer with a massive income promotion.

Lakers add a new power forward to their roster

Jarred Vanderbilt’s path to this lucrative agreement with the Lakers began when he was acquired from the Utah Jazz prior to last season’s trade deadline as part of the team’s extensive roster revamp. The 24-year-old was vital in the three-team transaction that revamped the Lakers’ lineup. This allowed Russell Westbrook to leave while bringing in D’Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley.

The Lakers had earlier exercised a $4.7 million club option on Vanderbilt for the 2023-24 season, indicating their belief in his potential. They’ve now rewarded his skills and adaptability with a long-term contract, highlighting his significance to the team’s rotation. Prior to joining the Lakers, he had a three-year, $13,122,000 contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves. And now after witnessing what he is capable of they offered him a contract extension of $48 million for 4 years.

He started 24 of the 26 games he played following the trade in the regular season. Not only that, he played 13 of the 15 postseason games, demonstrating his versatility and worth to the squad. Vanderbilt averaged 7.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in 24.0 minutes per game during the regular season. While his playoff playing time decreased, he remained a significant contributor, averaging 4.6 points and 3.2 rebounds. And he even managed to show off his skill against the greatest shooter in the NBA. Stephen Curry.

Vanderbilt’s defensive frenzy against Curry

Vanderbilt guarded Curry in the Lakers’ latest playoff encounter against the Warriors, demonstrating his outstanding abilities. Vanderbilt eagerly stepped up to the plate in Game 1 of the series, demanding the assignment of defending Curry. This is an operation that can only be described as a long race around the floor. Curry’s ability to generate space and swish 3s from seemingly impossible angles makes him a difficult offensive player to cover.

Vanderbilt established his worth throughout the night by having Curry work hard for his scores. Vanderbilt spent the most time guarding Curry than any other Lakers player. He was credited with accepting only one 3-point attempt, which Curry converted. Curry finished 3-5 from the field against Vanderbilt, with one turnover and one shot blocked. Beyond the numbers, what was clear was Vanderbilt’s level of effort and desire to guard Curry.

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The 24-year-old’s potential for growth and commitment to the team’s success made this contract extension a smart and fair decision for the Lakers. The Lakers have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining young talent like Jarred Vanderbilt as they continue to construct their roster for the future.

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