Lakers ‘preaching patience’ while betting on healthy duo Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent

Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent both struggled with injuries last season.

Lakers ‘preaching patience’ while betting on healthy duo Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent

Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt

The Los Angeles Lakers are taking a patient approach to strengthening their team, betting on the health and performance of key players Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic.

Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent both struggled with injuries last season, missing significant time and impacting the team’s overall performance. However, the Lakers are counting on their return to full health to make a substantial impact this season.

As things stand, the Lakers are preaching patience that the right trade will eventually materialize while betting that healthier versions of Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent, the addition of Knecht and the promotion of Christie into the rotation.
Jovan Buha of The Athletic wrote

The team is also looking for contributions from rookies Jalen Hood-Schifino and Max Christie. Despite calls for significant roster changes, the Los Angeles Lakers have made only minor adjustments, maintaining a largely unchanged squad.

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The Lakers’ management is focusing on internal improvements, banking on the return of key players to full health to make a substantial impact. The health and performance of Vanderbilt and Vincent will be crucial in determining the team’s success this season, as they look to overcome last year’s challenges and compete for a championship.

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Max Christie poised for breakout season with Lakers

Max Christie, the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2022 second-round draft pick, is expected to see increased playing time and become a key contributor this season. Christie expressed confidence in his role after speaking with new head coach JJ Redick regarding his involvement in the offense, defense, and rotation.

I think we're on the same page with that stuff and I think we're all in agreement that I'm gonna be a good part of the offense and defense and the rotation just in general, so I'm looking forward to that.
Max Christie said on Jovan Buha’s block

Christie’s minutes and production have been limited in his first two NBA seasons, averaging 4.2 points and 2.1 rebounds in 14.1 minutes per game last season. However, the Lakers have shown faith in his potential by re-signing him to a four-year, $32 million deal earlier this month.

At just 21 years old, Christie has time to develop into a consistent two-way player. The Lakers are hoping he will take significant steps forward during the 2024-25 campaign, and Christie’s confidence suggests he is ready to embrace the challenge and become a valuable asset for the team.

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