The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t enter the 2025 NBA Draft as headline-makers. They held the 55th pick, deep in the second round, where most teams quietly take chances. But something about this year’s playoffs shifted their mindset. As Lakers’ GM Rob Pelinka watched the league’s top teams battle, one thing became clear: physicality and athleticism are the new essentials.
That realization pushed the Lakers to act. Instead of standing pat, they made two aggressive trades to move up and target a tough, versatile forward named Adou Thiero at No. 36. Now, Pelinka explains exactly why Thiero fits the blueprint LA is betting on.
Why Rob Pelinka Believes Adou Thiero Was Worth Trading Up For
The Lakers originally held the 55th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. But as the night unfolded, it became clear they weren’t going to sit back and let someone else scoop up a key piece they had their eyes on.
The team made two strategic trades, first moving from No. 55 to No. 45 by sending that pick and $2.5 million in cash to the Chicago Bulls. Then they sent the No. 45 pick and more cash to the Minnesota Timberwolves to land the 36th overall pick specifically to draft Arkansas forward Thiero.
Speaking to reporters about the pick, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka offered a clear explanation for the front office’s aggressive move.
“I think all of us watched the playoffs, and just the way the game is being officiated now, there’s a lot more physicality in the game,” Pelinka said.
“Being able to add a young man like Adou who is just gifted … he’s a beast. Obviously, we’re going to get him in the weight room and get him conditioned. But I think the tools that he has, you can really see a vision for him being one of those really elite physical, athletic wings that are so necessary to winning in the league.”
Rob Pelinka on drafting Adou Thiero: “I think all of us watched the playoffs, and just the way the game is being officiated now, there’s a lot more physicality in the game. Being able to add a young man like Adou who is just gifted … he’s a beast. Obviously, we’re going to get… https://t.co/Yt4ia6PWgP
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) June 27, 2025
The focus according to Pelinka is the physicality that Thiero brings to the court. It’s no coincidence that Pelinka repeatedly emphasized Thiero’s strength and athleticism. In a league trending toward tougher, more demanding defense, Thiero fits right into the Lakers’ plan to surround their stars with rugged, switchable defenders who can hold their own on the perimeter.
Thiero’s Fit Into the Lakers’ Game Plan Alongside Luka Dončić and LeBron James
Thiero had a breakout college season, averaging 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. At 6’6”, he’s a wing who thrives on effort and impact, exactly the kind of player who can support the star-studded Lakers lineup led by LeBron James, and Luka Dončić.
Besides, Thiero knows exactly what he’s walking into, and he’s ready to soak it all in.
“LeBron! It’s going to be fun learning from everybody. But you got Bron, you got Luka, AR (Austin Reaves). It’s a lot of people on that team. I’m just ready to get with the guys and work,” Thiero said when asked about joining the roster.
Though listed as a forward, Thiero can guard multiple positions, block shots, get into passing lanes for steals, and shut down offensive sets. That’s the kind of help Dončić needs on the perimeter — someone who can take pressure off defensively, allowing Dončić to focus more on running the offense.
Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports broke down Thiero’s skill set and the upside he brings.
“He’s a slasher with a jacked frame and an explosive first step. He lives in the paint, and that’s despite his limitations as a shooter. If he’s able to figure out the shot, then his length and defensive versatility could make him a key player on a contending Lakers team,” O’Connor noted.
That potential is exactly what the Lakers are banking on. And as far as Thiero is concerned, he’s all-in.
“I’m ready to go in and do whatever I got to do to see the floor, help the team. Just doing whatever coach JJ need me to do,” Thiero told Spectrum SportsNet.
For now, the Lakers have their eyes set on development. But if things go according to plan, Thiero could become the kind of gritty, athletic wing who can help LA chase another banner.
