Lakers Sign Adou Thiero to Three-Year Deal Following Draft-Day Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed Adou Thiero to a standard NBA contract, the team announced today via press release.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Thiero’s deal is worth $5.95 million over three years, signed using the second-round pick exception. The contract is fully guaranteed for the first two seasons, with a team option for the third year.
Thiero was selected with the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft after the Lakers traded the No. 45 pick and cash considerations to the Minnesota Timberwolves to move up. The transaction was part of a blockbuster seven-team deal that also saw Kevin Durant sent from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets.
After beginning his college career with Kentucky, Thiero transferred to Arkansas, where he had a breakout year—averaging 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. He built a reputation as a versatile wing defender and elite athlete, though his three-point shooting remains a work in progress (career 28.4% from deep).
Thiero is expected to bolster the Lakers’ wing depth, especially following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith. However, he will not participate in Summer League play as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained during the college season, per Khobi Price of the Orange County Register.