Lakers Rookie Flashes Serious Two-Way Upside in Career-High Outing

03-09 10:01

The organization experienced success across multiple levels on Sunday. At the NBA level, the Lakers defeated the New York Knicks 110-97, led by Luka Doncic's 35 points and eight rebounds. With LeBron James out, Austin Reaves contributed 25 points, securing the team's second consecutive win and fifth in their last six games.

The Lakers' G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, extended their impressive run with a 113-104 victory over the Santa Cruz Warriors. The game featured two-way players Nick Smith Jr. and Chris Manon, along with NBA assignees Bronny James and Adou Thiero.

Rookie AdouThiero delivered a standout performance, scoring a career-high 25 points on efficient 10-of-12 shooting from the field and a perfect 5-of-5 from three-point range. He added six rebounds, two assists, one steal, and four highlight-reel dunks. While Smith, Manon, and James each scored 15 points, Thiero's all-around play was the headline.

Through seven G League games this season, the 21-year-old Thiero is averaging 15.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and nearly a block per game, shooting 66.1% from the field. His efficient play and emerging outside shooting add a new dimension to his game, potentially boosting his future NBA prospects.

Injuries, including offseason knee surgery and a recent MCL sprain, have previously hindered Thiero's momentum. However, Sunday's game marked his most productive G League outing this season, showcasing the athleticism, defensive versatility, and offensive potential that made him an intriguing second-round draft pick for the Lakers.

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