Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick said Monday that rookie Adou Thiero is progressing in his rehabilitation from left knee surgery and is close to debuting with the team.
Thiero was diagnosed with a left knee hyperextension at Arkansas and missed the final eight games of last season. He was sidelined for summer league and has been limited on the court since the start of training camp due to the injury.
The 36th pick started experiencing improvement in his knee swelling last month and was cleared for additional on-court work. He could be cleared to play at some point on their current five-game road trip that concludes Saturday in Milwaukee, according to Law Murray of The Athletic.
JJ Redick says that Adou Thiero is progressing and hopes that he may make his NBA debut at some point in this road trip
— Law Murray ⛲️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) November 10, 2025
Thiero was highly touted as a draft prospect this year because of his ability to score in the paint, athleticism, physicality and defensive instincts. He also boasts a 7-foot wingspan that enables him to get deflections and block shots.
Though in a limited capacity, the 21-year-old Thiero has caught the attention of several teammates and the coaching staff in practice. Redick even marveled at his leaping ability, calling his athleticism “insane” in a media availability last month.
Thiero is eager to get to work, though he isn’t rushing his return to the court. Once he is cleared and ready to go, which appears to be sooner rather than later, he will be looking to make an impact in any way he can for the 7-3 Lakers.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Lakers news: JJ Redick hints at potential debut of rookie Adou Thiero
