Going into Game 3 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Los Angeles Lakers have revealed the official injury report status for the veteran forward, Jarred Vanderbilt.
According to the Lakers’ injury announcement, Vanderbilt is listed as questionable due to a right finger dislocation. He joins Luka Doncic as one of two players listed for Game 3 on LA’s side.
Vanderbilt Upgraded
GettyLOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 18, 2025: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) sits next to Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) and Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) during the game against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
When Vanderbilt went out with his injury in Game 2, it seemed he could be out for some time. Before the matchup concluded, the Lakers received the full diagnosis for Vanderbilt.
Many were surprised when the head coach JJ Redick described Vanderbilt as day-to-day on Wednesday. When the Lakers released their injury report for Game 2, Vanderbilt’s initial status was doubtful, which was already a shock to the basketball world.
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – JANUARY 30: Dejounte Murray #5 of the Atlanta Hawks drives against Jarred Vanderbilt #2 and Christian Wood #35 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the third quarter at State Farm Arena on January 30, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images). (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
While questionable doesn’t mean Vanderbilt is on pace to play, it’s clear that he’s quickly moving in the right direction. And there is a chance the Lakers’ bench could get a boost on Saturday for Game 3 at home.
The Lakers Fell Behind
Photo by Harry How/Getty ImagesLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 30: Jarred Vanderbilt #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 30, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
During the 108-90 loss in Game 1 against the Thunder, Vanderbilt checked out after just six minutes of action.
In his absence during the second game on Thursday night, the Lakers suffered another frustrating beatdown. The Thunder put them away with a 125-107 score.
The Lakers continue to trail for the first time during the current playoff run. Considering the history of teams who are down 0-3, Saturday serves as a must-win for Los Angeles. The game is set to tip off at 8:30 PM ET at home in Los Angeles, California. Vanderbilt’s status decision could come down to a game-time decision.