2023-24 statistics that prove Jarred Vanderbilt is the ultimate Lakers X-Factor

51.3

An argument could be made that no one suffered more from Jarred Vanderbilt struggling to remain healthy than Anthony Davis. Davis put together an All-Defensive First Team level season, but was forced to play a role that asked him to effectively do everything on defense.

With Davis ranking No. 1 among centers and finishing in the top 20 overall in three-point field goals contested, the Lakers struggled to protect the rim, allowing 51.3 points in the paint per game.

Los Angeles ranked No. 21 in the NBA in points allowed in the paint in 2023-24. This was due in no small part to Davis being tasked with filling the void left by the injured Vanderbilt, which often meant playing along the defensive perimeter.

With no other rim protector on the roster, teams were able to get into the paint and score at virtual will as Davis was forced to cover 24 feet in any direction on any given possession.

With Vanderbilt back in the rotation, Davis would spend significantly less time away from the rim. This could enable him to settle in a bit more as a paint-protector, thus limiting the chances he has to take along the perimeter as Vanderbilt absorbs that responsibility as a Swiss army knife of a defender.

The Lakers need to add personnel who can continue to assist in this area of the game, but with a healthy Vanderbilt on the court, Davis' job as rim protector becomes far more manageable.