Los Angeles Lakers' bold call to retain Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt triggers heated debate
The Los Angeles Lakers have been linked to many stories this summer. From superstar names to small roster changes, the team has stayed in the headlines. There has also been talk of moves they could have made but didn't.
A recent report now reveals one choice the Lakers turned down as they prepare for the 2025–26
NBA
season.
Lakers turned down trade involving
Gabe Vincent
and
Jarred Vanderbilt
On Monday, August 11, NBA insider Sean Deveney of Athlon Sports reported that the Lakers had the chance to trade away guard Gabe Vincent and forward Jarred Vanderbilt this offseason. Both players were regulars in the rotation last year.
Gabe Vincent joined the Lakers in July 2023 after leaving the Miami Heat. Last season, he averaged 6.4 points per game and had one year left on an $11.5 million deal.
Jarred Vanderbilt arrived in February 2023 from the Utah Jazz. Known for his defense, he played only 36 games last season due to injury.
Deveney's report says rival teams asked the Lakers to include Vincent and Vanderbilt in trade talks. The Lakers declined, keeping both players for now. These talks reportedly happened earlier in the summer before training camp.
Los Angeles Lakers' cautious offseason approach
Sean Deveney said the Lakers look almost complete right now and are not planning big trades before the season begins.
It seems the choice came from the team's own management, who want to watch how the roster plays together first, before deciding on any major changes.
In July 2025, the Lakers added center Deandre Ayton after he left the Portland Trail Blazers. They also signed veteran guard Marcus Smart. Even LeBron James was mentioned in trade speculation earlier this summer, but no deal happened.
One Western Conference executive told Yardbarker, 'They have not been attacking the trade market by any stretch of the imagination.'
The Lakers appear to believe their current roster can compete as it is.
Jarred Vanderbilt's defensive skills and Gabe Vincent's playoff experience are seen as valuable. Both players also hold mid-level salaries that could be used in future trades if needed. By not moving them now, the Lakers keep flexibility for later in the season, such as around the trade deadline.
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NBA champ Tristan Thompson disrupts telecom giants with bold plan to expand internet access worldwide
Training camp begins in late September 2025 in Los Angeles. The regular season tips off in October. Until then, the Lakers are keeping both Vincent and Vanderbilt on the roster and watching how the team develops.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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