Lakers trade up to 36th pick, draft Adou Thiero

The Los Angeles Lakers had no first-round draft picks. Because of this, LA was attempting to trade up and get a better selection.

The Lakers initially made a deal with the Chicago Bulls, trading their 55th pick for Chicago’s 45th pick. LA reportedly showed interest in Ryan Kalkbrenner of Creighton University, but the Charlotte Hornets selected him with the 34th pick.

This led to the Lakers making another move to get a better draft pick. The Lakers traded their 45th pick and cash considerations to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for the 36th pick.

https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1938399143225098291?t=1AqeLay2AOg311l9w4JLLA&s=19

With that pick, LA selected Adou Thiero of Arkansas. Thiero averaged 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game last season for Arkansas.

Thiero started his collegiate career with Kentucky where he saw limited playing time. He eventually transferred to Arkansas after head coach John Calipari left Kentucky.

Thiero is a slashing-type player, which can help break down opponents’ defenses. Last season, Thiero recorded 45 slam dunks, and he had six games with 10 or more free throws.

The problem is his shooting. If he can add consistent range to his game, Thiero may become a valuable piece to the Lakers’ championship puzzle.