Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt sustained a full dislocation of his right pinky finger during Game 1 of the second round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to a May 6 announcement. The injury occurred in the second quarter when Vanderbilt’s right hand got caught on the backboard as he attempted to block a shot, causing him significant pain and forcing him to leave the court.
The incident was described as severe, with reports indicating that a bone appeared to break through his skin. Trainers immediately covered Vanderbilt’s hand with a towel and escorted him off the court. Shams Charania of ESPN reported: “Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt has sustained a full dislocation of his right pinky finger in a gruesome injury tonight, sources tell ESPN.”
Head coach JJ Redick addressed Vanderbilt’s condition after the game. “I just talked to him,” Redick said after the game. “He’s in as good of spirits as you can be in this situation, obviously frustrated with what happened… I went to go check on him because it just looked bad. I mean, he was audibly screaming and knew he had done something. We’re obviously disappointed that happened and it’s just a freak injury.” Redick had turned to Vanderbilt for an energy boost against Oklahoma City but now faces decisions about filling his role.
The Lakers lost Game 1 by a score of 108-90 despite their effort throughout the night. With superstar Luka Doncic unavailable, options for rotation changes include Luke Kennard, Jake LaRavia, Jaxson Hayes—who have seen consistent minutes so far—or possibly giving opportunities to younger players like Bronny James or Adou Thiero or veteran Maxi Kleber.
Redick emphasized that one focus moving forward will be limiting big scoring runs by Oklahoma City—a key factor given their status as defending champions and favorites in this series.