Los Angeles Lakers fans hoped to see this year’s second-round pick, Adou Thiero, take the floor in Summer League and preseason, especially after scouting reports touted his athleticism and defense. However, his recovery from a lingering knee injury derailed those plans, leaving many wondering what the rookie wing could offer.
With the season beginning in one week, the team revealed some encouraging news about Thiero’s status heading into the year.
Lakers Offer Promising Update on High-Flying Rookie
Thiero’s Recovery Improving
The Lakers shared an update on Thiero’s recovery Tuesday, revealing that he’s progressed in his on-court work.
“Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero has experienced improvement in his knee swelling which has allowed him to progress in his on-court activities. He will continue to build his strength under the direction of the performance team and will be reevaluated in approximately 2-3 weeks.”
The 21-year-old rookie spent three years with the Razorbacks, with his career culminating in a breakout junior season. In 27 games (26 starts), Thiero averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists on .545/.256/.686 splits. The Lakers apparently liked Thiero so much that they traded up twice in the second round to get him, moving from No. 55 to 36 in the 2025 NBA Draft.
In evaluating Thiero’s future role, General Manager Rob Pelinka had an intriguing comparison for him, believing he could turn into an OG Anunoby-type player.
“Obviously OG is an incredible player that’s done so much in the league. I don’t want to put pressure on anyone to become someone else, but that archetype is definitely it. He’s got the 6’7″ frame, he’s incredibly explosive, I think he’s a developing shooter, he’s a lob catcher. I think on the other side of the ball, he’s gonna be an elite defender. He has all the tools there.”
And despite Thiero’s preparation being hindered due to injury, he hasn’t stopped turning heads in training camp. He even caught JJ Redick’s attention.
JJ Redick on what he’s seen out of Lakers rookie Adou Thiero’s athleticism thus far in training camp: “He’s … it’s insane. I mean, head at the rim. It’s insane. It’s insane.”
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 11, 2025
Thiero’s Potential Role in Crowded Frontcourt
As a rookie on a title contender, Thiero’s chances of breaking into the Lakers’ rotation are already slim. However, he has plenty of tools and potential that suggest he’s ready to make an impact as soon as possible.
Thiero’s finishing and defense make him a solid option for spot minutes, especially if his head-at-the-rim athleticism looks as good as advertised post-injury. With an abundance of playmakers next to him, he’ll have no problems getting open looks at the rim or on the perimeter. His defensive versatility, alongside the team’s newest additions, could be pivotal for a team that had its highs and lows there last season.
Austin Reaves has already advised Thiero of how he could best contribute: by wreaking havoc across the floor. That scrappy play will be a welcome sight for Laker fans who are used to championship-level effort.
Austin Reaves on Adou Thiero:
“I told him before, I was like I want you to make the game as nasty as possible, like run somebody over, go get offensive rebounds…
…He’s so athletic, like he’s almost like — If there’s a thing of too athletic he’s almost that”
—
(@deadboylyfee) October 3, 2025
The Last Word on Adou Thiero
While Thiero recovers and waits for his opportunity—a period that will likely include a stint in the G League—the Lakers are one step closer to seeing what their rookie can bring to the table.
© Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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