The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to receive a major boost as forwards Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood are targeting a return for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, according to multiple reports.
Vanderbilt has been out since February 1st due to a sprained right mid-foot injury, while Wood has been sidelined since mid-February due to a knee ailment.
Both players have progressed well in their rehabilitation and are on track to make their comebacks in Game 3. Vanderbilt has been ramping up his on and off-court workouts in recent weeks, and he is expected to be on a minutes restriction if he plays on Thursday.
Wood, who has averaged 6.9 points and 5.1 rebounds in 50 games this season, is also expected to be on a minutes restriction if he plays on Thursday.
The Lakers have been struggling on the defensive end, so the return of Vanderbilt and Wood could provide a much-needed boost. Vanderbilt is known for his energy and rebounding, while Wood provides length and versatility.
The Lakers will need all the help they can get as they try to tie the series against the Nuggets. The Nuggets won the first two games of the series in Denver, and the Lakers will need to win Game 3 at home to avoid falling into a 3-0 hole.
With Vanderbilt and Wood back in the lineup, the Lakers will have a better chance of matching up with the Nuggets’ size and athleticism. Vanderbilt can guard multiple positions on the defensive end, and Wood can provide a scoring boost off the bench.
The Lakers are hoping that Vanderbilt and Wood can help them turn the series around and advance to the second round of the playoffs.
