Just in, the Lakers 48M to lock down Jarred Vanderbilt for the next four years

This offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka hasn't speculated and has bet on continuity. Pelinka and Ham decided to bring back the core group that made it into the Western Conference Finals in the last season not only for the 2023-24 campaign but they have locked down a contending deep team for the next three to four years.

It has just been reported by ESPN's Dave McMenamin that "Los Angeles Lakers forward Jared Vanderbilt has agreed to a four-year, $48 million extension a couple of weeks before training camp opens, sources told ESPN. There is a player option in the fourth year. “Vando” was an instrumental piece in LAL’s turnaround last season."

With this move, the Los Angeles Lakers are now ready to go beyond this season, which is exciting for the fans. GM Rob Pelinka was able to sign every player without overpaying or disrespecting their talent.

With 12M per year, Jarred Vanderbilt now will be battling with Rui Hachimura for a starting role, which is going to set an interesting duel ahead of the Lakers training camp.

The reason why is a great deal for both sides

As always, some are trying to say the Lakers overpaid on Vando, but they should remember that 4/48 is below the MLE. That’s a great deal and reflects his current defensive ability. If his 3pt % and finishing at the rim see even moderate improvement then the deal is a major bargain, which is possible to happen as Jarred has been locked down with AC Phil Handy.