DEAL ACCEPTED: Los Angeles Lakers Power forward Jarred Vanderbilt Signs a 4-year Contract With the New York Knicks, worth $109 Million as their new…. See more

DEAL ACCEPTED: Los Angeles Lakers Power Forward Jarred Vanderbilt Signs a 4-Year, $109 Million Contract With the New York Knicks as Their New Defensive Anchor

New York City — July 21, 2025

The New York Knicks have officially made one of the most surprising and impactful moves of the 2025 NBA offseason. Former Los Angeles Lakers power forward Jarred Vanderbilt has agreed to a four-year, $109 million deal with the Knicks, sources confirmed Monday morning. This move immediately reshapes the defensive identity of the franchise and signals a clear direction for New York moving forward — grit, versatility, and toughness.

A Statement Move from the Knicks

The Knicks have long been searching for the right balance between offensive firepower and defensive stability. After their disappointing exit in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the front office made it clear they were not content with mediocrity. While many expected New York to chase high-profile scorers or veteran stars, the Vanderbilt signing is a strategic pivot toward shoring up the defensive core.

President of Basketball Operations Leon Rose released a brief statement following the announcement:

“Jarred Vanderbilt embodies the kind of player we believe fits the heart and soul of New York basketball. He brings energy, defensive intensity, and a relentless motor. We’re excited to welcome him to the Garden.”

What Vanderbilt Brings to New York

Jarred Vanderbilt, 26, was a key defensive cog during his time with the Lakers, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player regardless of position. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, Vanderbilt offers elite switchability on defense, excellent rebounding, and a growing offensive skillset that should help the Knicks on both ends of the floor.

During the 2024-25 season, Vanderbilt averaged 8.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game, while shooting 52% from the field. While not known for his scoring, his ability to contribute in transition and make smart cuts off the ball made him a valuable piece on a star-studded Lakers roster.

Perhaps most importantly, Vanderbilt brings a culture-setting attitude. He plays with tenacity, intensity, and an unselfish approach that coaches and teammates praise. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, a defense-first strategist, is expected to love Vanderbilt’s game and utilize him as a centerpiece of New York’s defensive schemes.

Fit with the Current Knicks Roster

With Julius Randle’s future still uncertain due to trade rumors and injury concerns, Vanderbilt provides immediate depth at the forward position. Even if Randle stays, Vanderbilt can slide into multiple roles — defending wings, switching onto guards, or serving as a small-ball center.

He joins a young, promising core that includes Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, and Mitchell Robinson. Adding Vanderbilt strengthens a Knicks defense that ranked in the top 10 last season but struggled with consistency and perimeter defense in the playoffs.

Expect Vanderbilt to take on the toughest assignments night in and night out, potentially guarding players like Jayson Tatum, Jimmy Butler, and Giannis Antetokounmpo in the East. With Vanderbilt on board, the Knicks gain a level of defensive versatility they have lacked for years.

Reaction Around the League

While the move came somewhat unexpectedly — with few reports linking Vanderbilt to New York in the days leading up to the signing — reactions around the league have been largely positive.

NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski called it “a calculated and smart move by a team looking to build a real identity,” while former NBA player and current analyst JJ Redick said, “Vanderbilt to the Knicks is a perfect culture fit. He’s not flashy, but he wins possessions — and that wins games.”

On the Lakers’ side, this marks a significant loss. Vanderbilt had become a fan favorite in Los Angeles due to his hustle and defense, and he was expected to be a core part of their rotation moving forward. His departure now forces the Lakers to retool their wing and forward depth.

The Financials

Vanderbilt’s $109 million deal averages around $27.25 million per year, a figure that places him in the mid-to-upper tier for NBA forwards. While some critics may raise eyebrows at the size of the contract given his limited scoring numbers, the Knicks clearly believe that his impact goes far beyond the box score.

The contract is believed to include a player option in the final year, and performance-based incentives related to team defensive rating and playoff success.

What’s Next for the Knicks?

This signing may not be the end of New York’s offseason activity. Rumors continue to swirl about the Knicks’ interest in acquiring a high-level scorer to complement Brunson and Barrett. However, this move sets a clear tone: the Knicks are building from the ground up with players who fit a winning culture.

Jarred Vanderbilt won’t be the Knicks’ leading scorer. He may never make an All-Star team. But what he brings — toughness, energy, defense, and a winning mentality — could be exactly what the Knicks need to take the next step in the Eastern Conference.

One thing is certain: Madison Square Garden is about to get a whole lot louder on defense.