Thunder bench horrified by Jarred Vanderbilt’s gruesome NBA playoff injury
New York Post • • sports
Key Points:
- Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt suffered a full dislocation of his right pinky finger during Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Thunder, leading to him being rushed to the locker room and requiring stitches.
- The injury occurred when Vanderbilt attempted to block a shot and hit the backboard, with the dislocation severe enough that the bone appeared to break the skin.
- Vanderbilt played only six minutes and scored two points before leaving the game, dealing a significant blow to the Lakers' defensive efforts.
- Lakers coach J.J. Redick described the injury as a "freak injury," while LeBron James expressed frustration over losing Vanderbilt, noting his toughness and good spirits despite the pain.
- The Lakers may be without Vanderbilt for the remainder of the series, which could impact their defensive capabilities against the Thunder.
