The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly added five new players during this year’s NBA Draft, including 36th overall pick Adou Thiero, NCAA’s leading scorer Eric Dixon on a two-way deal, and undrafted prospects RJ Davis, Augustas Marčiulionis, and Arthur Kaluma on Exhibit 10 contracts.
The Los Angeles Lakers were active on the second night of the 2025 NBA Draft as they made a couple of trades and some interesting signings at the draft.
Adou Thiero (36th pick, Arkansas)
Free throws this season
Los Angeles Lakers
NBA
The Lakers kicked off their activity by moving up nearly 20 spots in the draft. They initially traded with the Chicago Bulls, acquiring the 45th pick in exchange for the 55th pick and cash considerations.
They then flipped the 45th pick in a subsequent deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves, again using cash to move up and ultimately select Adou Thiero with the 36th overall pick.
Thiero, a 6’7” junior forward from Arkansas, is a long, athletic combo forward known for his defensive versatility, high motor, and transition play. According to NBADraft.net, he brings value as an energy piece with above-average mobility.
In his junior year at Arkansas, Thiero averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 27.5 minutes across 27 games. He shot 54.5% from the field, although just 25.6% from three.
Eric Dixon (Two-way, Villanova)
The Lakers also landed one of the most productive players in college basketball last season: Eric Dixon from Villanova, the nation’s leading scorer.
The 6’8”, 260-pound forward averaged 23.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and shot 40.7% from three on over seven attempts per game, earning a spot on the AP All-American Third Team.
With his combination of floor spacing, strength, and size, Dixon has drawn comparisons to Grant Williams — a strong, stretch forward who carved out a valuable role on playoff teams.
RJ Davis (Exhibit 10, North Carolina)
Another notable addition is RJ Davis, a dynamic 6’0” senior point guard out of North Carolina. Davis is known for his elite vision, quickness, and playmaking instincts.
Across his five-year career with the Tar Heels, Davis averaged 15.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists, shooting 36.7% from three. He’ll look to prove himself during Summer League and could emerge as a viable backup point guard option.
Augustas Marciulionis (Exhibit 10, St. Mary's)
The Lakers also added Lithuanian playmaker Augustas Marciulionis, a 6’4” point guard who impressed at Saint Mary’s with his poise and passing skills.
In his senior season, Marciulionis posted 14.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, while shooting 44.6% from the field and 34.7% from three.
He and Davis are expected to compete for a potential roster spot through Summer League and time with the South Bay Lakers, offering different strengths at the point guard position.
Arthur Kaluma (Exhibit 10, Texas)
Rounding out the Lakers’ undrafted additions is Arthur Kaluma, a 6’8” forward from Texas known for his versatility and athleticism.
Kaluma averaged 12.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks in his final collegiate season. While his offensive skillset and shooting range still need refinement, his energy, rebounding, and defensive upside make him a strong candidate to fight for a roster spot.
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