LeBron James‘ record-setting 23rd NBA season hasn’t started the way he hoped. What began as a precaution to sit out the preseason, deemed as his “own timeline,” has now stretched longer than expected. The sciatica injury issue will keep him off the hardwood for another three to four weeks, resulting in his absence from the start of the season. But King James can quit brooding for now as Jarred Vanderbilt shares nothing but sympathy for the legend.

“I mean, it sucks, you know, not being able to start the season. It’s tough trying to play catch-up and get integrated midseason—that’s hard for anybody. But obviously, this might be his first time… not playing game one. It’s an adjustment for anybody, but he’s a pro’s pro. He’s been around the game; he knows what to do with his body and how to adapt. We’re just excited to have him whenever he comes and he’s available,” Jarred Vanderbilt said.

Vanderbilt knows exactly what the Akron Hammer is going through right now. The forward was sidelined at the start of the 2023-24 season, missing the first 20 games with bursitis in his left heel. And just when it looked like he was finding his rhythm, he stayed healthy for barely two months before being ruled out for the year with a right foot sprain. So if there’s anyone who understands the frustration of sitting out and watching from the sidelines, it’s Vanderbilt.

However, this season might finally be the one where Jarred Vanderbilt turns the corner. During the Lakers’ 103–111 preseason loss to the Warriors, he quietly made his presence felt, raking in 9 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three steals, which even caught the attention of JJ Redick.

“I’ve been very impressed with just the amount of work he’s done this summer on his game, and obviously, his body is significantly better than this time last year, or even when the season ended,” the Lakers head coach said. “He’s moving better; his handle is tighter. I’ve never seen him make a Euro Decel finish.” 

If he can knock down shots consistently, Vanderbilt might transform into the Lakers’ much-needed 3-and-D weapon, a versatile two-way threat who can stretch the floor for stars like LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves. The 26-year-old even cracked the starting lineup during preseason games.

Jarred Vanderbilt recently said something fundamental that highlighted how the LA roster is soaking in the preseason experience: “Until then, the rest of the guys just have to hold the fort down.” The plan this season was already to build around Luka Doncic, and with LeBron James sitting out, that strategy will only gain more momentum.

The Slovenian star is yet to make an appearance in preseason for the Lakers. He has currently been given a break to rest after a strenuous summer. If Doncic can hit the ground running and keep up the pace across the year, trust me, the MVP chatter that surprisingly faded away last season won’t be far behind.

Who else will need to step up to help the Lakers hold the fort until their kingpin returns? While that’s a big dilemma, it also begs another important question, though.

Have the Lakers found LeBron James’ replacement?

Coming into training camp, it was pretty clear who was supposed to be in the starting lineup: James, Doncic, Reaves, and Ayton. But we’re not so sure right now, are we? Dan Woike from The Athletic reports that the team will probably lean on a mix of Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, and Jarred Vanderbilt.

“None of those players will be asked to do any of the things James does; they will, though, be asked to do more of what they do well in extended minutes while the Lakers are without one of their stars,” Woike wrote.

We’ve already talked about how Redick is positive on Vando this season. Along with him, Hachimura now has a chance to be more aggressive and show what he can really do on both ends of the floor, while LaRavia, though still unproven defensively, could help stretch the floor with his shooting. The first few weeks of the season will be a real test, not just for them individually, but for the team as well, figuring out who can step up when the spotlight is on.

The Lakers do have a few other forwards to consider, but Dalton Knecht isn’t expected to be a significant part of the rotation, even with LeBron James out. He is shooting a mere 30.5% from the field in preseason. However, with the 40-year-old’s sciatica issue, Knecht could contribute in other ways, as a last-ditch effort to raise his stock price, in case the LA side needs to package him with another future pick and ship him out.

If Marcus Smart is healthy, he could start alongside Rui Hachimura. When LeBron James returns, the Lakers can then determine how to integrate him into the mix. However, if they’re worried about Smart guarding speedy players, it might be better to give Vando more playing time now. Hachimura’s shooting is crucial for the team without Bron, so the coaches just have to decide who fits best on defense.

It’s a lot to figure out, but the Lakers are working hard to make everything click.