Ja Morant gives verdict on LA Lakers star’s improved shooting after Jake LaRavia issues praise

Ja Morant drops a two-word praise on Jarred Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt is primarily known as an elite defender, and that’s how the Lakers have used him over the last two and a half seasons.

But in the modern era, every player needs to aim to be an average three-point shooter. However, Vando has consistently failed in that department.

After all, he shot just 28.1% from deep, while the league average was 36.0% in the 2024-25 NBA season. Heading into a new campaign, Jake LaRavia claims Vanderbilt has improved on this weakness of his game.

Additionally, Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant’s two-word reaction to Vanderbilt’s training session video suggests the same.

While Morant himself isn’t the best three-point shooter in the league, he is still a top star. As a result, earning praise from Morant will certainly serve as a morale booster for Vanderbilt.

JJ Redick on Jarred Vanderbilt’s growth

Last season, Vanderbilt dealt with multiple injuries and was limited to just 36 games in the regular season. He averaged an abysmal 4.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game for the Lakers.

Head coach JJ Redick wants to leave that in the past, as he had nothing but praise for Vanderbilt following the first two days of the NBA Training Camp.

“It’s night and day the way Vando’s moving right now. Even from when we finished the season. His growth and body mechanics this summer are significant.

“It’s evident in the first two days of camp,” Redick said, via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

Vanderbilt may not be the top star on the Lakers, but his fitness could very well make or break the season for the Purple and Gold.