LeBron James and the LA Lakers are off to a good start and are fifth in the Western Conference with a 21-11 record. While much of it has to do with Luka Doncic’s stellar play to start the season, the Lakers have also established a strong defensive identity behind players such as Jarred Vanderbilt and Marcus Smart.
After LA’s 128-121 win against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, James spoke about Vanderbilt’s impact on the offensive end and how he could do more:
“We also need him to knock down a corner shot. … Teams are not gonna guard him. They kinda disrespect him over there, not even contesting the shots and he’s put a lot of work every day in practice just shooting that same shot.”
LeBron on Vando: “We also need him to knock down a corner shot. … Teams are not gonna guard him. They kinda disrespect him over there, not even contesting the shots and he’s put a lot of work every day in practice just shooting that same shot.”
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) January 3, 2026
It’s understandable why teams leave Vanderbilt open as he has never been known for his perimeter shooting. In fact, this season, he is averaging the most attempts per game at 1.6. Before this season, the most 3-point attempts he averaged per was 1.2 in the 2022-23 season.
Jarred Vanderbilt is also shooting career high from the perimeter, converting on 41.7% of his attempts. Going by LeBron James’ words, it seems like the Lakers are priortizing shooting behind the playmaking of Doncic and the four-time champion.
LeBron James Led Lakers in Their Friday Win Against Grizzlies
LeBron James was back to his absolute best in Friday’s 128-121 win against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday. He ended the night with 31 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Luka Doncic was even better with 34 points, eight assists and six rebounds. If the two can keep up their stellar play, the Lakers could go deep in the playoffs.
The LA Lakers have also been buoyed by the play of players such as Jake LaRavia, who ended the Memphis game with 21 points, nine rebounds, three 3s, two steals and a block.
Jarred Vanderbilt attempted just four shots for five points. Three of those attempts were 3-pointers and he converted one. The forward is going through a purple patch from the perimeter and has shot 13 of 21 in the past five games.
Also Read:
Steve Kerr Accepts Brutal Reality Of Warriors’ Decline Against Wembanyama And OKC
Days After Draymond Green’s Attack on Suns Guard, Jimmy Butler Drops Same Insult for Nets Rookie
OKC Thunder Join Elite List After Latest Win Against Golden State Warriors
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
