The record-setting 23rd season didn’t start the way LeBron James had hoped. What began as a precaution—sitting out the preseason games as he was on his “own timeline”—has now stretched longer than expected. That timeline seems to have extended with a nerve irritation turned sciatica injury, set to keep him off the hardwood for another three to four weeks, likely making him miss the start of the season. While the Lakers continue to pin their hopes on LeBron’s eventual return to chase another title, they now have no choice but to rely on others to fill the gap in his absence. But LeBron can quit brooding for now because his 26-year-old teammate might just be his rescue.

Jarred Vanderbilt knows exactly what LeBron James is going through right now. And he’s the one lifting spirits for the 40-year-old LeBron. “I mean, it sucks, you know, not being able to start the season,” Vanderbilt admitted. “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 anyone, 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.”

The 26-year-old forward was sidelined at the start of last season himself, 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.

This season might finally be the one where Jarred Vanderbilt turns the corner. During the Lakers’ 103–111 preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors, Vanderbilt quietly made his presence felt as a defensive anchor with improved offense, which was even noticed by HC 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,” Redick 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 just 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 Dončić, and Austin Reaves. He even cracked the starting lineup during preseason games. 

But Jarred Vanderbilt’s most telling words came when he said, “Until then, the rest of the guys just have to hold the fort down.” The plan this season was already to build around Luka Dončić, and with LeBron sitting out, that strategy has only gained more momentum. With James sidelined, Luka’s minutes are bound to rise, giving him the perfect stage to take over.

He’s in the best form of his life, both mentally and physically, sharper, calmer, and more locked in than ever. And with LeBron’s absence opening the door, this could very well mark the start of an explosive run for Dončić. If he keeps this pace, the MVP chatter won’t be far behind.

But who else will step up to help the Lakers “hold the fort” until LeBron returns?

Have the Lakers found LeBron James’ replacement?

Coming into camp, it was pretty clear who was supposed to be in the starting lineup: James, Dončić, Reaves, and Ayton. But not so sure right now. But Dan Woike from The Athletic reports that the team will likely 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, and that pretty much sums up the plan.

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 are going to be a real test, not just for them individually, but for the team 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 major part of the rotation, even with LeBron out. With James sidelined, Knecht’s opportunities to see the court are clearer, giving him a chance to make an impact early in the season — just not necessarily through scoring. It’s more about contributing in other ways and showing he can help the team in the areas that don’t always show up on the stat sheet.

If Marcus Smart is healthy, he could start alongside Hachimura. When LeBron comes back, the Lakers could figure out how to fit him into the mix. But if they’re worried about Smart guarding really fast players, it might be better to give Vanderbilt more playing time now. Hachimura’s shooting is really important for the team without LeBron, 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.