By Adiel Kalonji | NBA Editor
The situation seems to be going badly for the Lakers at the moment, who have just lost at the buzzer in Game 2 against the Nuggets (99-101). But as their hopes of qualifying tend to diminish, some good news could change everything.
Already defeated in Game 1, the Lakers suffered a second defeat in a row this Monday against the Nuggets (99-101). And this is enough to demoralize an entire troop, since the Californians thought they could equalize in the series after leading by 20 points. That was until Jamal Murray dashed their hopes with a killer shot at the buzzer. LeBron James and his team will therefore approach the next duel at 0-2.
That being said, the outcome of this series is still far from being sealed. Because although they are considered outsiders, the Purple & Gold have shown that they are capable of playing an equal game away from home against the reigning champions. What’s more, it could be that one of their most trusted soldiers, who has been stuck in the infirmary until now, will join the battle earlier than expected according to information from Dave McMenamin.
A new return hoped for for the Lakers in Game 3
Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt, out since Feb. 1 with a right midfoot sprain, is eyeing a return to the court as early as Game 3 of L.A.’s first round series with the Denver Nuggets, a source familiar with the situation told ESPN on Monday.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 23, 2024
Read also
Controversy during Lakers Game 2, LeBron gets angry: “I don’t understand”
An ESPN source close to the matter indicates that Lakers winger Jarred Vanderbilt, unavailable since February 1 due to a sprained right foot, is considering a return to the floor in Game 3 of the first round series of LA against the Denver Nuggets.
Having just played 29 matches this season, Vanderbilt nonetheless remains one of the best defenders in Darvin Ham’s squad.
However, for now, coach Angelino prefers not to get carried away with this issue and advocates patience:
Darwin Ham: We’ll see how he reacts to what he did today. Regardless, nothing will change in terms of new information. It’s a matter that plays out on a day-to-day basis. So we need to see how he tolerates the recovery process. He made a pretty big effort today. So we’ll see how he feels tomorrow. We will continue to work day by day.
But if a return for Game 3 seems to be taking shape for the former Wolves — just like that of one of his teammates, his current level remains subject to doubt given his obvious lack of rhythm. However, it was confirmed that he was able to train in good conditions recently. His contribution would in any case be of great benefit to his team, which could finally be almost complete.
While the Lakers have just suffered new disillusionment by cruelly losing Game 2 against Denver, the potential return of Jarred Vanderbilt could give them a smile again. It remains to be seen whether it would allow them to reverse the trend of this series.