Los Angeles Lakers player Austin Reaves has expressed significant admiration for rookie Adou Thiero's athleticism, describing it as almost excessive. Reaves has advised Thiero to adopt a more aggressive playing style, emphasizing the importance of offensive rebounds and physical play to maximize his impact on the court.
Reaves' comments, made during an appearance on the podcast Young Man & The Three, highlighted Thiero's unique physical capabilities. He stated, \"I told him before, I was like I want you to make the game as nasty as possible, like run somebody over, go get offensive rebounds… He’s so athletic, like he’s almost like — if there’s a thing of too athletic he’s almost that.\" This sentiment underscores the high expectations for Thiero to utilize his raw talent to disrupt opponents and contribute significantly to the team's defensive and rebounding efforts.
Adou Thiero, at 21 years old, was initially drafted by the Brooklyn Nets as the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft before being traded to the Lakers for the 45th pick and cash considerations. His collegiate journey spanned both Kentucky and Arkansas, where he consistently demonstrated growth and refined his skills. In his final college season, Thiero averaged an impressive 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds, showcasing his potential as a versatile forward capable of contributing on both ends of the floor.
The Lakers' preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns resulted in a 103-81 loss. Despite the team's defeat, Reaves led the scoring with 20 points, while Bronny James added eight. Key players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic were rested to manage their offseason conditioning and prepare for the demanding regular season schedule. Thiero's involvement in the game, though limited in minutes, provided him with crucial early professional experience.
Thiero's integration into the Lakers' roster is seen as beneficial due to his exceptional athleticism and adaptability, which aligns with the team's strategic needs. His prowess in defense, rebounding, and close-range scoring makes him a valuable asset. The Lakers' starting lineup for the game included Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Austin Reaves. The Phoenix Suns, spearheaded by Devin Booker's 24 points and Dillon Brooks' 10 points, established a significant 27-point lead by the third quarter.
Austin Reaves' endorsement of Adou Thiero underscores the Lakers' belief in the rookie's immense athletic potential and his capacity to become a crucial player for the team. Thiero's college performance and physical attributes suggest he can be a dynamic presence, particularly in defensive plays and securing rebounds, which will be vital for the Lakers as they aim for a successful season.
