Jarred Vanderbilt calls season ‘frustrating’ after dealing with multiple injuries

This was a rough season for the Lakers, but Jarred Vanderbilt had a particularly bad one where he played so well but found himself too often on the injury report.

From the moment Jarred Vanderbilt was traded to the Lakers back in 2023, he was an integral part of the team. His defensive versatility and size are what every team dreams of having on the wing.

When Vanderbilt re-signed in the summer, he helped the Lakers maintain continuity heading into the 2023/24 season.

Instead of Vanderbilt being a defensive bedrock, he spent more time on the bench than on the floor, playing in just 29 regular season games.

First, Vanderbilt missed time with left heel bursitis, then upon his return, he suffered a mid-foot sprain that ultimately ended his season. He was made available for the final game of the year, but was a DNP coach's decision.

After the game and the Lakers' elimination from playoff competition, Vanderbilt spoke about his inability to play this season.

"It definitely was frustrating not being available, Vanderbilt said in his exit interview. "It's been a long year dealing with injuries and trying to get healthy and be there for the team. It definitely was frustrating, especially knowing that I could have contributed to some of the stuff we were lacking this year. Definitely was frustrating."

A fast, elite defender was desperately needed versus the Nuggets and Vanderbilt fits that bill.

Maybe Vanderbilt could've slowed down Michael Porter Jr., who shot 48% from beyond the arc, or switched onto Jamal Murray and prevented one of his game-winning shots. At the very least, Vanderbilt would've given the Lakers some much-needed depth.

For Vanderbilt, this was an unfortunate season. Nothing was learned, but much time was wasted. Progress, however, is not always linear and with three years left on his four-year deal, there's plenty of time left to maximize his talent here in Los Angeles.

The question remaining now is what that Lakers team looks like when Vanderbilt suits up next year. With the Lakers parting ways with Darvin Ham, who will be the head coach? Will LeBron James return? With the Lakers reportedly being "aggressive" in the trade market this offseason, will there be a new star in the City of Angels?

2024 may have been frustrating for Vanderbilt and Lakers fans, but 2025 can be drastically different.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.