Lakers rely on bench depth as stars sit out
Quentin Grimes scored 23 points while Jarred Vanderbilt made his season debut in a 103-87 win over the Clippers.
By Allison Rojas ·
The Los Angeles Lakers won their third game in four nights on Wednesday, but the victory hinged on a second unit stepping up while key starters missed time. Quentin Grimes, the highest-paid free agent addition this summer, started at guard in the 103-87 win against the Los Angeles Clippers. He played a team-high 38 minutes, scoring 23 points on 7-of-15 shooting, adding five assists, and recording four steals.
Luka Doncic sat out with back tightness, and Ziaire Williams was also unavailable. The absence of these two wings forced the coaching staff to lean heavily on the bench. Through the first three games, Grimes had served primarily as a sixth man. On Wednesday, he shifted to a starting role to help stabilize the offense during a busy stretch.
Grimes noted that his role varies based on the lineup. He told the Southern California News Group that his focus remains on executing his specific skills rather than adapting to a fixed position. He emphasized trusting his instincts and the game plan to maintain consistency.
Jarred Vanderbilt made his first appearance of the 2026-27 season in the first quarter. The reserve forward had not played a minute in the previous four games. He immediately impacted the game by securing an offensive rebound that led to a score. The Lakers had ranked last in the NBA in total rebounds per game, averaging 38.0, before this matchup.
Coach JJ Redick adjusted the big man rotation midgame. He inserted Vanderbilt and Sandro Mamukelashvili to defend Clippers center Brook Lopez. This pairing limited Lopez to two points and three rebounds in 22 minutes. Redick cited the duo's ability to space the floor and disrupt the opponent's passing lanes as a key factor in the second half.
The Lakers complete the first leg of a five-game, seven-night schedule with a game against the Golden State Warriors on Friday at 7 p.m. at Chase Center. Matisse Thybulle, who has made 12 of 24 three-point attempts this season, said the team prioritizes discipline in its game plans when dealing with injuries.
The win improved the Lakers' record while they managed their roster depth. Grimes and Vanderbilt have known each other since high school, having played on the U.S. Men’s Junior National Select Team. Grimes stated he was confident Vanderbilt was prepared for a starting role when the opportunity arose.
