With JJ Redick stepping in as the new Lakers coach, he’s got his hands full from day one. No rookie coach pass for him, especially with LeBron nearing the end of his career and hungry for one last chip. On top of that, Jared Vanderbilt’s injury situation isn’t looking great. Reports suggest it’s uncertain whether he’ll be ready for training camp or even preseason. He skipped surgery back in February, but there’s still a chance he might be available for the regular season.

This is especially tough, considering Redick and Vanderbilt need each other for the Lakers to thrive this season. Let’s dive into why that connection is crucial – Redick had a real chance to build on last year’s game plan and figure out how to get the best out of Jared Vanderbilt. It was not just about boosting Vando’s scoring; it was also about maximizing his defensive skills.

With a starting lineup of LeBron, AD, Reaves, and Russell ready to light up the scoreboard, the Lakers needed a defensive wing like Vanderbilt to team up with Davis and cover both the perimeter and the paint. If Redick could have helped Vando stay effective offensively while bringing that defensive fire, it would have been a game-changer for the Lakers. But with Vanderbilt injured now, Redick’s plans are in flux.