Los Angeles Lists Vanderbilt as Questionable for Critical Game 3 Against Thunder
los-angeles-lists-vanderbilt-questionable-for-critical-game-3-against-thunder
The Los Angeles Lakers could regain a key rotation piece when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder for Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinal series. The club listed forward Jarred Vanderbilt as questionable with a dislocated right pinky finger suffered four days ago, while star guard Luka Doncic remains sidelined by a Grade 2 left hamstring strain.
Vanderbilt’s status remains uncertain
Vanderbilt left Game 2 on May 7 at Paycom Center after fully dislocating his right pinky, an injury severe enough to break the skin. Despite the gruesome setback, the 27-year-old forward is pushing to return quickly as the Lakers attempt to trim Oklahoma City’s 2-0 series lead.
Head coach JJ Redick has leaned heavily on his starters through the first two contests. Vanderbilt’s defensive versatility and uptempo play would give Los Angeles a much-needed boost, especially with reserve forward Jake LaRavia struggling and logging just 10 minutes in Game 2. Without Vanderbilt, Redick has primarily trusted Luke Kennard and Jaxson Hayes off the bench, occasionally turning to rookie Adou Thiero for spot minutes.
Doncic still out, timetable unchanged
Doncic, who has not played since suffering his hamstring strain, was originally given an eight-week recovery window. He has yet to be cleared for full-contact work, and the Lakers do not expect him to appear during the current round. The three-time All-Star averaged 31.4 points in the regular season before the injury.
Game 3 is set for Friday at Crypto.com Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT.
Source: Lakers Nation
