Los Angeles Lakers rookie Adou Thiero was ruled out of the 2025 NBA Summer League.
The news came in light of the 36th overall pick suffering a left knee injury before the start of the 2025 NBA Summer League.
Considering he’s a second-round pick, the Los Angeles Lakers fanbase was excited to see him in action before NBA training camp.
Unfortunately, the wish remains unfulfilled as Adou Thiero was forced to be on the sidelines.
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty ImagesAdou Thiero is back and LA Lakers fans couldn’t be happier
Pre-season injuries are never a good sign for rookies, especially a late-draft prospect, as it could hinder their growth in the NBA.
However, in the case of Thiero, he has shown remarkable recovery as the rookie was recently pictured training at the Lakers’ facility.
The image was shared on the Lakers’ official Instagram account, and upon seeing it, the team’s fan base had nothing but positive comments.
“I got a good feeling about this rookie,” one fan wrote. While another added: “Big dawg Adou.”
“He’s a younger, more athletic Dorian Finney-Smith with better scoring capabilities, we’re going to be good,” a third Lakers fan added.
“Why does he lowkey look like Bryce James,” a fan asked.
“Just play defense, grab offensive and defensive rebounds, that’s all we need from you,” a fifth fan announced.
“You guys better give him some minutes,” one concerned fan stated.
All things considered, the Laker Nation seems over the moon about Thiero’s return as the team heads deep into the offseason.
High expectations from Adou Thiero despite falling to the second round
The 2025 NBA Draft had a plethora of amazing prospects like Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, and VJ Edgecombe.
While these players were viewed as flat-out top-notch prospects, what about the steals of the draft? Well, legendary NCAA coach John Calipari bestowed Thiero with that title.
“We have had guys go in the second round or even undrafted that go on to have a great NBA career! He has what it takes mentally and physically to succeed in the NBA. Go do it, Adou,” Calipari said.
Thiero had a breakout 2024-25 season after transferring to Arkansas from Kentucky, averaging 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
Now, those were decent numbers, and on top of that, Thiero also has a clear idea about his path in the NBA, as he once revealed which players he looks up to.