With the 2025-26 NBA season approaching and the Los Angeles Lakers retooling for a serious title push, one key veteran could find himself on the trade block. According to a report by Devon Platana, forward Jarred Vanderbilt may be the most likely Laker to be moved before opening night, as the franchise evaluates its options under the constraints of the salary cap.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Roster Overhaul Leaves Questions for Veterans
The Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason moves have reshaped the team’s identity. Key acquisitions — including Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia — have significantly improved head coach JJ Redick’s depth chart. But as the team eyes additional roster upgrades, especially on the wings, financial flexibility becomes a necessity. Given the Lakers’ current cap situation, further additions will likely require a trade, and Vanderbilt’s name continues to surface as a logical piece to be moved.
Why Jarred Vanderbilt Might Be the Odd Man Out
Jarred Vanderbilt, acquired by the Lakers during the 2022-23 season, has had a turbulent tenure in Los Angeles. Known for his defensive versatility and hustle, his potential has been overshadowed by an ongoing struggle with injuries.
Games Played Since 2023-24:
Vanderbilt has only played in 65 regular-season contests and five playoff games since the beginning of the 2023-24 season, raising concerns about his reliability. Despite his effort on the court, availability remains a major issue.
Financial Factors Complicate Future
Jarred Vanderbilt is currently under contract for approximately $24 million over the next two seasons, and holds a $13.2 million player option for 2027-28. For a player who hasn’t been consistently available, this is a significant cap hit — especially for a team looking to compete at the highest level.
Offloading Vanderbilt’s deal could open doors for the Lakers to pursue a more durable and productive veteran wing — a position that remains an area of need.
Trade Outlook: A Deal Waiting to Happen?
Whether used in a straight salary dump or as part of a multi-player deal for a proven contributor, Vanderbilt’s expiring deal and defensive skill set could still be appealing to certain teams. However, his durability issues may limit the Lakers’ leverage in negotiations.
As Devon Platana puts it: “He just isn’t the player L.A. needs him to be.” That statement encapsulates the shift in perception around Vanderbilt — from valuable rotation piece to trade candidate.
The NBA offseason has already featured surprise trades, and Jarred Vanderbilt could be the next domino to fall. With the Lakers aggressively looking to maximize LeBron James’ and Anthony Davis’ remaining prime years, every roster spot matters. If Vanderbilt is unable to prove his durability before the season begins, his time in Los Angeles may indeed be coming to an end.
As the summer progresses, expect the Lakers to explore all options — and that includes potentially saying goodbye to a familiar face in Jarred Vanderbilt.
