Lakers Draft Arkansas Forward with 36th Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
The 2025 NBA Draft has concluded, and while the Lakers didn’t have many draft picks, they were sure busy moving up in the second round. They first traded the 55th pick, along with cash considerations, to the Chicago Bulls for the 45th pick. The Lakers then sent the 45th pick to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 36th pick. Adou Thiero from the University of Arkansas was selected with that pick, a six-foot-eight wing with great athletic ability. Thiero is recognized for his defensive ability and has tremendous upside to improve his game.
The belief is that if he had a better jump shot, he probably would have been selected in the first round. The Lakers can afford that exchange, as there are plenty of shooters in the free-agent market that they can go after. Defense is a trait the Lakers could sure use. Lebron James is a year or two away from retiring, and any help from a wing he can get defensively would be much appreciated. On top of that, the future of the Lakers rests on Luka Doncic, who isn’t exactly known for his defense either. Arkansas got a new look with former Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari. However, the team struggled in its first season. The fact that Thiero was able to learn under one of the best basketball coaches alive is also a plus.
During the season, Thiero averaged 15.1 points per game and 5.8 rebounds. He also shot 54.5% from the field. He is also bringing the right attitude, I’m sure Luka and Lebron would love to say. “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.” Starting in 26 out of the 27 games he played shows he is durable and ready for the grind. The Lakers got as good a pick as you can get that late in the draft. Thiero will be someone Laker fans will come to like and enjoy.
