Adou Thiero: Lakers Rookie Progressing Towards NBA Return
The Los Angeles Lakers have faced a challenging season with injuries, but positive news is emerging on the recovery front. While Luka Doncic is dealing with a hamstring issue, another Lakers player is quietly making strides towards a return to the court: rookie wing Adou Thiero.
Thiero Assigned to South Bay Lakers for Practice
On Sunday, the Lakers announced the assignment of both second-year guard Dalton Knecht and Adou Thiero to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, for practice. While Knecht’s assignment is primarily developmental, Thiero’s participation holds significant weight.
The 21-year-old has been sidelined since December 30th with a sprained MCL. His inclusion in the practice session is a clear indication of tangible progress in his rehabilitation. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Thiero “participated in his first full-contact stay-ready game since the injury earlier in the week.” This type of G League practice assignment is often a final step before a player returns to NBA action, a path previously taken by stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
A Look at Thiero’s Potential
Selected with the 36th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Thiero has appeared in 15 games for the Lakers, averaging 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in 5.8 minutes per game, shooting 38.9% from the field. He brings a reputation as a physical, defense-first wing with considerable upside.
Pre-draft evaluations consistently highlighted his potential as a 3-and-D contributor. Yahoo! Sports’ Kevin O’Connor noted, “If he’s able to figure out the shot then his length and versatility would make him a classic 3-and-D role player.” His 7-foot wingspan, lateral quickness, and physicality allow him to guard multiple positions.
Addressing a Lakers Need
For a Lakers team that has struggled with consistent wing defense throughout the season, Thiero’s return could be perfectly timed. While the addition of Luke Kennard improved perimeter shooting, it didn’t directly address defensive concerns. Currently ranked 22nd in the NBA in defensive rating (116.5), the Lakers could certainly benefit from Thiero’s defensive capabilities.
G League Performance and Future Outlook
Thiero showcased his potential during his previous G League stints. In three Tip-Off Tournament games, he averaged 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, shooting 55.6% from the field. A standout performance against the Santa Cruz Warriors on November 21st saw him score 19 points, grab four rebounds, and record three steals in just 19 minutes.
With Kennard now on the roster, Kobe Bufkin signed to a two-year deal, and Adou Thiero nearing a return, the Lakers are building wing depth and potential. As they head towards the All-Star break with a recent 8-3 record, these reinforcements could be crucial for a strong finish to the season.
Source: ESPN
