LAKERS STRIKE EARLY GOLD: Los Angeles Lands No. 36 Pick Adou Thiero in Sneaky Draft-Night Steal—Versatile Star Set to Bring Grit and Athleticism to Hollywood
The Los Angeles Lakers made a quiet yet potentially impactful move on draft night by agreeing in principle to acquire the draft rights to Adou Thiero, the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. While the transaction is expected to be finalized at a later date, the news is already sending waves across the league. The Lakers, known for their star-studded legacy and championship pedigree, have shown in recent years a growing commitment to building depth and securing young talent. The selection and acquisition of Thiero may well be a continuation of that strategy—a calculated move that blends present needs with future aspirations. For Lakers fans, who have grown accustomed to high-profile names and blockbuster trades, the addition of Thiero might initially feel underwhelming. However, a deeper look into what Thiero brings to the table reveals why this deal could turn into one of the most underrated steals of the 2025 NBA Draft.
Adou Thiero is not a household name in basketball circles yet, but those who have followed his journey understand his immense upside. Standing 6-foot-8 with a wingspan to match and the agility of a guard, Thiero represents the modern archetype of a positionless basketball player. He emerged as a defensive menace during his college career and was known for his hustle, tenacity, and elite versatility. What makes Thiero particularly attractive to the Lakers is his ability to guard multiple positions, rebound effectively from the wing, and contribute offensively in a supporting role without dominating the ball. These are precisely the traits that championship teams look for when rounding out their rosters.
The Lakers’ front office, now led by general manager Rob Pelinka, has been strategically reshaping the roster over the last few seasons. With LeBron James aging and the long-term future revolving around Anthony Davis and potential emerging stars, acquiring a player like Thiero sends a strong signal. The Lakers are not just focused on immediate title contention—they’re also investing in the next wave of impact players who can grow into meaningful roles. Thiero’s potential to become a 3-and-D contributor, or even evolve into something greater, fits that blueprint perfectly.
One of the reasons Thiero dropped to 36th overall is that he remains a bit of a developmental project. He’s not a finished product, particularly on the offensive end. His jump shot is still a work in progress, and he isn’t yet a primary shot creator. But what sets Thiero apart is his high motor, basketball IQ, and willingness to embrace a role—traits that cannot be taught. He’s the kind of player who thrives in a culture that values toughness and accountability, and that is something the Lakers have quietly been emphasizing under head coach Darvin Ham. Ham, a former grinder himself during his playing days, is known to appreciate players who bring effort on both ends of the floor. Thiero could flourish under Ham’s guidance and in the Lakers’ system, which values ball movement, spacing, and defensive intensity.
From a strategic standpoint, acquiring a player like Thiero without giving up a major asset is smart business. Second-round picks often come with lower financial commitments and greater roster flexibility. It gives the Lakers an opportunity to evaluate and develop Thiero within their organization, possibly even through their G League affiliate if needed. It also opens the door for a lower-risk, high-reward scenario—should Thiero hit his stride, the Lakers will have added a cost-controlled asset to support their core.
Thiero’s college stats don’t scream stardom, but that’s not the point. His impact goes beyond numbers. He has been described as a “glue guy,” someone who does the dirty work, makes the extra pass, boxes out, and rotates defensively without needing the spotlight. These are the exact types of players that often end up swinging playoff series. Think of players like Bruce Brown, Josh Hart, or even a young Trevor Ariza. They’re not headliners, but they’re invaluable when the game slows down in April and May. Thiero has the chance to carve out a similar niche, and in doing so, earn his place in the rotation of a contender.
The Lakers’ roster entering the 2025-2026 season is in a state of both evolution and expectation. With LeBron James likely entering his final years, the pressure to win now remains immense. But there is also a clear acknowledgment that the team must prepare for life after LeBron. Acquiring players like Thiero doesn’t generate headline buzz like a free agency splash, but it lays the groundwork for sustainable success. The Lakers have seen firsthand what happens when a roster lacks balance—too many stars without supporting role players can lead to burnout, lack of chemistry, or vulnerability to injuries. Thiero offers balance. He offers flexibility. Most of all, he offers potential.
If history is any guide, the Lakers have a decent track record of finding diamonds in the rough when it comes to overlooked talent. Players like Jordan Clarkson, Kyle Kuzma, and Austin Reaves have all outperformed their draft slots or free agent status while in Los Angeles. Reaves in particular serves as an interesting comparison—undrafted out of Oklahoma, he gradually worked his way into a starter’s role and even earned a national team invitation.
