Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt believes first-year guard Adou Thiero is experiencing many of the same challenges he once faced early in his NBA career.
Thiero, 21, emerged as the most explosive athlete on the Lakers roster during the 2025-26 campaign, flashing above-the-rim finishes and versatile defense. Yet his rookie season was interrupted twice: an offseason knee procedure sidelined him at the start of the year, and an MCL sprain cost him additional time.
Vanderbilt, now 26 and in his fourth season with Los Angeles, said the stop-and-start year can be difficult for a young player who is not a lottery pick.
“It’s all part of the process”
“Sometimes it’s hard to see the bigger picture right then and there,” Vanderbilt told reporters, noting he spent three seasons moving between the NBA and the G League before earning a regular role. “Being able to grind from the bottom and really put in the work is what gets you up here.”
The veteran credited Thiero for maintaining a positive approach while shuttling between the Lakers and their G League affiliate. “He’s embraced the process, learned from it, showcased his strengths and shown a willingness to develop areas he’s not so good at right now,” Vanderbilt said. “He’s made great progress over the year.”
Despite limited game action, Thiero impressed coaches with consistent effort when called upon. Team officials view him as one of the franchise’s few long-term prospects if he can stay healthy and build on his first-year experience.
Veteran guard Marcus Smart has also taken on a mentorship role, offering guidance as Thiero adapts from a featured college role to sporadic NBA minutes.
With the 2025-26 season winding down, both Vanderbilt and the Lakers expect Thiero’s continued development to be critical for a roster that lacks young depth.
Source: LakersNation.com
