Adou Thiero set for NBA debut with Los Angeles Lakers

LOS ANGELES, CA — Adou Thiero, the Los Angeles Lakers rookie forward, has been cleared to play and is set to make his NBA debut against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Thiero has been recovering from left knee surgery that kept him out of Summer League, preseason games, and the beginning of the regular season.

Thiero, selected 36th overall by the Lakers in the 2025 NBA Draft, was listed as questionable for the game but was upgraded to available after showing significant progress in his recovery. Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed Thiero’s status while expressing careful optimism about his return.

“We’re taking our time with him to ensure he’s fully ready,” Redick said. “It’s essential to manage his transition back to playing time after missing so much. I look forward to seeing how he can contribute to the team once he hits the court.”

During his time at the University of Arkansas, Thiero averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 27 games, making him a highly regarded prospect due to his athleticism and defensive skills. His height and wingspan, characterized by a solid frame and leaping ability, position him as a potential key player for the Lakers.

Despite not playing in previous games, Thiero’s training regimen included on-court activities with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. It has been a long journey back to the court for Thiero, who last played on February 22, prior to his surgery. His return is welcomed as the team seeks to improve its performance, particularly given recent struggles against highly athletic teams.

The Lakers aim to integrate Thiero into the lineup gradually. Any minutes he receives against the Pelicans will mark a significant milestone in his career, after such a lengthy setback. Fans and teammates alike are eager to see what he brings to the floor.