Lakers make decisions on Jarred Vanderbilt, Luke Kennard for Game 2
Will Jarred Vanderbilt and Luke Kennard play in Game 2 between the Lakers and the Thunder?
After losing 108-90 in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Lakers will play Game 2 of the series on Thursday at Paycom Center. While it isn't a must-win game for them, they may need to win this contest in order to have a realistic chance of winning the series or even making it competitive. Coming into Thursday, it looked like the Lakers could be very short-handed for Game 2.
Luka Doncic is still out with a hamstring strain, and forward Jarred Vanderbilt dislocated a finger during Game 1, causing him to be listed as doubtful. Meanwhile, sharpshooting guard Luke Kennard was listed as questionable with neck soreness. Vanderbilt will not play in Thursday's game, but Kennard will be available.
Luke Kennard (neck soreness) has been upgraded to available for tonight’s Game 2 at Oklahoma City, per the Lakers. Jarred Vanderbilt (right finger dislocation) has been downgraded to out. — Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) May 7, 2026 With Doncic and Vanderbilt out, coach JJ Redick said he will play at least nine men on Thursday.
“We’ll play at least a nine-man (rotation)” - JJ Redick says. — Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) May 8, 2026 After Thursday, this series will shift to Crypto. com Arena in Los Angeles.