The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing to bundle forward Jarred Vanderbilt and guard Gabe Vincent into a single trade package aimed at acquiring a young, two‑way wing before the 2026 trade deadline. The move seeks to boost defensive intensity, add three‑point spacing, and give the aging LeBron James and Anthony Davis a stronger supporting cast as the team fights to stay playoff‑relevant.
The Lakers’ Recent Slide
Los Angeles has dropped four of its last five games, including a 135‑117 loss to the Charlotte Hornets that highlighted defensive breakdowns and offensive stagnation. The losing streak has intensified fan frustration and put pressure on the front office to make decisive roster changes.
Gabe Vincent’s Struggles in L.A.
Vincent arrived in the offseason on a three‑year, $33 million deal after four solid seasons with Miami. Expected to be a perimeter defender and secondary ball‑handler, injuries limited him to 38 games, and he posted modest averages of 6.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, and under‑30 percent shooting from three. The recent defeat magnified criticism of his role.
Jarred Vanderbilt: Potential Hampered by Injuries
Acquired from Minnesota, Vanderbilt was praised for hustle, rebounding, and defensive versatility. Injuries have confined him to 35 appearances, where he averaged 7.0 points and 5.4 rebounds. While flashes of versatility appear, his inconsistent availability has prevented him from establishing rhythm with the Lakers’ core.
Why Packaging Both Players Makes Sense
The Lakers’ payroll now clusters around expiring contracts: Rui Hachimura ($18.2 million in 2024‑25), Gabe Vincent ($11.5 million), and Jarred Vanderbilt ($6.5 million). This creates cap flexibility to target a young wing who can defend, stretch the floor, and develop alongside the franchise’s marquee stars.
Target Profile for a Young Two‑Way Wing
The ideal acquisition would be a player capable of contributing immediately on defense while possessing upside for future growth. Attributes include:
- Defensive versatility across multiple positions
- Consistent three‑point shooting to improve spacing
- Age 22‑24, offering several years of development
- Contract flexibility that aligns with the Lakers’ salary structure
Franchise Implications of the Trade
Sending roughly $18 million in combined salaries would signal a shift from a pure “win‑now” strategy to a balanced approach that blends immediate competitiveness with long‑term flexibility. Moving Vincent and Vanderbilt could also provide fresh starts for both players, allowing them to thrive in environments better suited to their skill sets.
Bottom Line
Facing a four‑game skid, injury‑limited assets, and an aging core, the Lakers are at a critical juncture. Packaging Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent for a young, two‑way wing offers a plausible path to address defensive lapses, enhance three‑point spacing, and revive playoff hopes before the trade deadline. The success of this strategy will depend on finding the right partner and player to execute the move.