The Los Angeles Lakers got in on the 2025 NBA Draft action on the second day. The Purple and Gold agreed in principle to acquire the draft rights to Razorbacks forward Adou Thiero, the 36th overall pick of this year’s draft class.
Thiero has been viewed widely as one of the more athletic wings in the circuit. To acquire him, LA first traded their 55th pick and an estimated $2.5 million in cash to the Chicago Bulls for their 45th pick. The pick and cash considerations were sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves for their 36th selection, according to sources.
Adou Thiero Excited About Playing With LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves
According to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell, Thiero was elated when he was drafted by the Lakers as the 36th pick. “It feels good, dream come true, just happy to be here,” the wing said. “Playing for the Lakers, too, that’s a blessing for sure.”
When asked about the idea of playing alongside LA’s ‘Big 3’, he further added, “LeBron?! … It’s going to be fun learning from everybody, but you got LeBron, Luka, AR … I’m just ready to get with the guys and work.”
“It feels good, dream come true, just happy to be here,” said Thiero. “Playing for the Lakers too, that’s a blessing for sure.”
Asked about the roster, Thiero laughed and said: “LeBron?! … It’s going to fun learning from everybody, but you got LeBron, Luka, AR … I’m just ready… https://t.co/2JH9HZZfF9
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) June 27, 2025
Per the LA Times, the Lakers’ scouting team compared Thiero to be in the same mould as New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby. While his shooting needs work, the franchise is optimistic that Thiero will get there once he starts work with the Lakers. On his part, Thiero was already willing to commit to doing what was needed.
“Whatever Coach JJ needs me to do, I’m ready to go out there and do it,” the forward said. “Just put me on the floor, I got you. I’m gonna go out there and do all the little things. Whatever needs to be done will be done.”
Thiero added:
“Whatever Coach JJ needs me to do, I’m ready to go out there and do it. Just put me on the floor, I got you. I’m gonna go out there and do all the little things. Whatever needs to be done will be done.” https://t.co/Z6W9lCjR9V
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) June 27, 2025
It will be an interesting summer for the Lakers. Earlier, Austin Reaves formally declined the team’s max offer for four years and $89 million. Their major target remains adding a bona fide center. While there have been links to Walker Kessler, there have been no significant developments yet.
The Lakers had an impressive run under first-year head coach Redick this past season. They ended 50-32, crossing the 50-run mark for the first time since winning the championship in 2020.
While Thiero comes in as raw talent, the need of the hour is to put the right pieces around Dončić and James. They acquired the Slovenian superstar, securing their long-term future, but will now be under pressure to make the right calls to ensure LA remains a title contender.
