Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart has been counseling first-year forward Adou Thiero on how to secure playing time, telling the 21-year-old that defensive commitment is the surest path into head coach Darvin Ham’s rotation.
Speaking after a recent practice, Smart said he has repeatedly reminded Thiero that “everyone enters this league as a star” but must adapt to the role a team needs. “Let the scoring come second,” Smart emphasized, noting that the Lakers already have several proven offensive options while dependable stoppers are harder to find.
Mentorship in Action
Thiero, listed at 6-8, has flashed potential as a 3-and-D contributor thanks to his size, physicality and athleticism. Although a healthy Lakers roster offers limited minutes, Smart believes the rookie’s defensive ceiling could ultimately earn him a spot. “He has the size, ability and athleticism to be one of the greatest defenders in this game,” the veteran said. “You just have to want to.”
According to Smart, Thiero has been proactive about seeking advice. “Adou’s been really great. He comes to find me, picks my brain,” Smart added. “Each day he shows he wants to get better.”
Smart Returns From Back Injury
The veteran guard recently missed several games with a back issue but returned in the Lakers’ loss to the San Antonio Spurs. In that outing, he went 8-for-14 from three-point range and reported feeling healthy afterward.
While Smart continues to rebuild his shooting rhythm for the 2025-26 campaign, he hopes his own defensive identity—and the guidance he offers—can accelerate Thiero’s development.
Source: LakersNation.com
