Jarred Vanderbilt suffered a severe pinky injury while attempting to block a dunk during Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The injury occurred when he hit his finger on the backboard while trying to stop a dunk by Chet Holmgren.
Vanderbilt left the game in significant pain and did not return. He had scored two points and grabbed one rebound in six minutes prior to his exit. The Lakers announced that he would not return for the remainder of the game.
At halftime, the Lakers were trailing 61-53 when Vanderbilt exited. Several players on the Thunder bench immediately looked away at the sight of the injury, indicating its severity.
Vanderbilt’s playing time has decreased recently, which means his absence may not significantly impact the Lakers’ rotation. Jake LaRavia may see a larger role off the bench due to Vanderbilt’s injury.
Officials have not confirmed Vanderbilt’s status for Game 2. His injury adds uncertainty to an already critical playoff series against the defending champions.
