“He’s a great offensive player, man,” Jarred Vanderbilt acknowledged during a press conference this week, as shared by Lakers Nation, showing the respect he has for Edwards’ skill set. “He’s super physical, he’s shooting it well this year, as you can see.”

When asked about how the Lakers plan to slow down Anthony and limit his impact in the upcoming series, the forward kept it straightforward. “Just continue to just make it tough for him,” he said. “He can get going quick, so just not to get anything easy for him.”

Vanderbilt also spoke about Edwards’ growth since the last time the Lakers faced the Timberwolves in the 2023 play-in tournament. “I think his playmaking has advanced since then, just being more of a leader for the team,” Jarred said. “I think that was one of his years when he was transcending to where he is now… his leadership has grown.”

The 26-year-old forward also acknowledged the challenge Minnesota poses as a team. “They’re gonna play hard, they’re gonna play physical, they’re gonna be greedy,” he explained, before discussing the mindset the Lakers need to bring for the NBA playoffs. “For us, just going out there, being aggressive, hitting first, just being able to have that approach.”

JJ Redick also praises Anthony Edwards

Breaking down the Lakers’ NBA playoff picture, JJ Redick was also asked about Anthony Edwards. “The thing that jumps out at you is just the three-point volume,” the coach said. “His ability to make shots at a really high level off the bounce. His pick-and-roll threes, his iso threes, dribble-up transition threes, he shoots them all at a really high clip.”

Redick continued analyzing the Minnesota guard’s game. “He’s still got his mid-range package, he’s still got the ability to get to the rim and finish, but not many guys that can shoot off the dribble at that volume from three, can also make 40% of them,” JJ explained. “That unlocks a lot.”

Redick breaks down the Timberwolves

JJ Redick didn’t limit his analysis to just Anthony Edwards—he also highlighted what makes Minnesota a dangerous team. “They’re a really good basketball team. The more you watch them on film, the more you respect them,” the coach said. “They’re a better team than 49 wins. The other three teams that are top-10 in offense and defense are all 60-win teams.”

As for the Lakers’ approach, Redick was candid: “It’s like any playoff series. You’re gonna prepare for Game 1, and you’re going to go try to win Game 1, and then, from there, it’s adjustment after adjustment… We’ll prepare for Game 1, and then we’ll go from there.”

In his return, Vanderbilt made an immediate impact in just 12 minutes on the court. Despite limited playing time, he showcased his readiness for the challenges ahead in the NBA regular season. His return was a boost for the team, with teammates expressing their relief and excitement to have him back, especially in a demanding matchup against the Warriors.

James, known for his candid assessments, praised Vanderbilt’s seamless return to action. “He looked like he didn’t miss a beat. He’s flying around,” LeBron said, emphasizing Vanderbilt’s importance to the team. With his defensive prowess and versatility, the Lakers have regained a vital contributor for their upcoming contests.

LeBron also highlighted how Vanderbilt’s contributions often go beyond the stat sheet. “What he does doesn’t even show in the box score… three steals, the playmaking, the assists, offensive rebounds, tip-ins. We missed him,” LeBron remarked. Vanderbilt’s intangibles on the court underline his value as a game-changer for the Lakers as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead.

Vanderbilt reflects on his return to the Lakers

The Lakers undoubtedly felt the absence of Vanderbilt. While his impact wasn’t defined by flashy statistics—he recorded just two points—his contributions went beyond the box score. With four rebounds and two assists, Vanderbilt demonstrated that he wasn’t just easing back into the game but was already making himself indispensable to J.J. Redick’s game plan.

“It’s been a long journey, a tough journey. It’s almost been a full calendar year since I’ve been able to play again,” Vanderbilt told the media after the game. His words carried a sense of determination, as he emphasized his readiness to contribute toward the team’s ultimate goal: making the playoffs.

“It’s a big step in the right direction, and I’m excited. It’s been a hell of a journey,” Vanderbilt added. His return has given Lakers fans hope for a revitalized mindset, with the forward’s presence poised to play a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of another NBA championship.

Redick praises Vanderbilt’s impact

Alongside LeBron, Lakers head coach highlighted Vanderbilt’s influence on the team. “Vando was awesome. He did all the things we need him to do,” Redick remarked. “I have a strong sense that he’s been sandbagging over the last three weeks, just in terms of his intensity level.”

Redick also acknowledged the transformation Vanderbilt displayed during the game compared to practices. “We haven’t seen that in the gym. Tonight, he looked like the Vando we know,” Redick noted, praising his performance against the Warriors.

James was playing at an MVP level and ass the focal point of the team’s offense. They’ve struggled vastly without him, and they don’t have a lot of room for error with just 20 games left in the regular season.

TheLakers need to bring their A-Game if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive without their best player for the next few weeks, and these guys could be their biggest factors going forward.

NBA News: 3 Lakers Players That Must Step Up Now

3. Anthony Davis

Let’s start with the obvious here. Anthony Davis needs to be the guy and their offensive focalpoint. He cannot hide anymore; he was supposed to lead this team even with LeBron around, and that hasn’t happened.

There’s no doubt that Davis is one of the best players in the league. His impact on both ends of the floor is nearly unmatched when he’s healthy, but his character has also been an issue as of late.

2. D’Angelo Russell

With James out of the picture, D’Angelo Russell will need to fulfill that prophecy and become the star combo guard the Lakers thought he’d be when he first entered the league. He needs to be way more aggressive.

Russell was an All-Star in Brooklyn, and he’s proven that he can score in bunches when he gets into a rhythm. He cannot settle anymoreand will need to take a step forward as one of their primary bucket-getters.

1. Jarred Vanderbilt

And last but not least, the Lakers’ playoff hopes might as well hang on Jarred Vanderbilt’s shoulders. He’s not a star by any means, but he’s been the most impactful player for the Lakers— outside of LeBron— since joining the team.

Vanderbilt can play and defend multiple positions. His length, lateral quickness, and athleticism make him a nightmare on switches. He’s also an efficient shooter from all three levels, so he could be the ultimate X-Factor for this team going forward.