In a bit of a surprise, the Lakers made a move on Thursday night in the second round of the NBA draft, nabbing a young wing they will hope to develop in the coming years as they look to replenish a roster that has mostly been built on free agency and trades. The Lakers came into the draft with the 55th pick in the second round but moved up nine spots to pick 6-foot-7 wing Adou Thiero from Arkansas.
Thiero, a junior, averaged 15.1 points per game for the Razorbacks, and shot 54.5% from the field, though only 25.6% from the 3-point line. The Lakers sent cash and their pick to the Timberwolves to make the trade happen.
ESPN's host for second-round coverage, Malika Andrews, pointed out that the network's draft expert, Jonathan Givony, called Thiero, "the best dunker in the draft."
Feb 22, 2025; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Adou Thiero (3) shoots a free-throw during the second half against the Missouri Tigers at Bud Walton Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images
Arkansas Razorbacks forward Adou Thiero (3) shoots a free-throw during the second half against the Missouri Tigers at Bud Walton Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images
The site wrote of him, "Thiero is perhaps the most explosive player in this draft, an event creator defensively who is a significant mismatch attacking in a straight line and the open court, drawing fouls in bunches and finishing in highlight-reel fashion."
And on the broadcast, former Nets executive Bobby Marks noted that the Lakers need wing depth, especially with uncertainty around the future of Dorian Finney-Smith, who can become a free agent, looming.
At The Ringer, Thiero was rated the No. 27 overall prospect, praised for his athleticism, propensity for physical play, rebounding ability and defense. The only question is whether he can acquire the polish needed for the NBA.
The Ringer's J. Kyle Mann wrote: "Rounding out his game will be an uphill battle, albeit not an unrealistic one. Thiero is a sometimes shooter with a slower release that could be workable enough to get by. He has moments of connective brilliance and displays quick touch on his passing. His unselfish approach is nonnegotiable for him—it’s hardwired into how he plays. Thiero seems willing to embrace an identity that best suits his strengths, and for that reason, his game is worth betting on."