It’s a brand new season for the Los Angeles Lakers. While many will keep their eyes on the duo of Luka Dončić and LeBron James, there should be attention on some of the other players on the Lakers’ roster.
One that doesn’t get enough attention is rookie Adou Thiero. Thiero may be a second-round pick, but he possesses quite a bit of athleticism, and if there’s one Lakers personnel member who has taken note of this, it’s JJ Redick.
What Did JJ Redick Have to Say About Lakers’ Rookie Adou Thiero?
While talking with the media during Lakers practice, Redick was asked about Thiero’s overall athleticism, to which the Lakers’ head coach did not mince words.
“It’s insane,” Redick told reporters, per NBALakersReport’s X account. “I mean, head at the rim, it’s insane.”
Redick then revealed when the Lakers plan to get him involved in team sets.
“He’s been a modified participant,” Redick said. “He’s been a participant in everything but live. That I don’t have a good answer for. I know we’re going to really take our time with making sure all of his biomechanics are correct, so that any swelling that he’s getting in that knee, we can shut that off towards long-term health.”
JJ Redick has been marveling at Adou Thiero’s athleticism although emphasized the organization will continue to be cautious with his long-term health in mind. pic.twitter.com/r95bkCWVDM
— Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) October 11, 2025
In his final collegiate season with Arkansas, Thiero averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 54.5% from the field. Something the Lakers definitely need is some youthful athleticism.
Having players like Dončić and James is quite the luxury, but even they need help around the edges. The Lakers earnestly tried to add that this offseason by signing Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia. There might just be a diamond in the rough for them if he carves out a niche with the team through his athleticism.
The Lakers have someone like him on the roster with Jarred Vanderbilt. He has proven himself to be an excellent defender when he’s healthy. The problem is what he brings on the offensive side of the floor, which is, well, nothing.
If Thiero can do what he does, plus bring a little offensive firepower, that could be a game-changer for the Lakers. Obviously, they need to keep expectations in check regarding a rookie selected in the second round, but Thiero could help tremendously if he proves to do the little things right.