Lakers' $48 Million Elite Defender ‘Surprised’ by JJ Redick’s Rotation Move Amid Luka & Squad's Defense Woes

Jarred Vanderbilt shared his thoughts about being out of LA Lakers coach JJ Redick's rotation recently. Vanderbilt played in the team's first 14 games as injuries hounded the team. Once the team got healthy, the veteran forward was benched.

During his media availability on Saturday, a reporter asked Vanderbilt if he had conversations with Redick and his staff about him being out of the rotation.

"Kinda here and there, I guess," Vanderbilt said, per ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

Vanderbilt, currently on a four-year, $48 million contract per Spotrac, added that he was "surprised" by his brief appearance in Sunday's 112-108 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. The 6-foot-8 wing played three minutes and had one assist and one foul. Vanderbilt has only played one game in the Lakers' last 10 games.

"I said control what I can control and keep showing up to work doing my part supporting the team," Vanderbilt said when asked about handling his reduced role.

The Lakers' defensive struggles were prominent during the 132-119 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinal on Wednesday. LA gave up 27 fast-break points and let San Antonio shoot 44.7% from 3-point range (17-for-38).

While Vanderbilt could help Luka Doncic and Co. with his perimeter defense, his offensive limitations are a concern. He is a career 28.6% 3-point shooter and has seen his playing time reduced as he could not contribute offensively.

LA acquired Vanderbilt via a three-team trade in February 2023, and in the following offseason, he signed a four-year deal with LA.

JJ Redick comments on when Jarred Vanderbilt could be back in the rotation

Amid the team's defensive struggles, LA Lakers coach JJ Redick said they are "looking at everything" on how to address the issue. In his media availability during the team's practice on Friday, Redick was asked about possibly re-inserting Jarred Vanderbilt in his regular rotation.

"If this continues, he'll definitely get his opportunities," Redick said.

Through 15 games, Vanderbilt is averaging 4.3 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.5 assists on 43.1% shoooting, including 26.7% from 3-point range, in 17.3 minutes per game.

Redick hinted that Vanderbilt could be tapped in spurts if LA's defense continues to get worse. Coming into Saturday, the Lakers are No. 4 in the Western Conference with a 17-7 record but ranked only 21st in the NBA in defensive rating (116.7).