Adou Thiero
The Lakers rookie cooled off from his recent career outing. Still, he has flashed loads of two-way potential that can make him part of LA’s future. In five games, Thiero is averaging 14.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 block per game on 68.3% shooting from the field. After a career-best 25 points with five three-pointers, Thiero came back to earth with a modest six points, four assists, two blocks and a rebound. His all-around skill set is promising now that he’s fully healthy, and though Redick has recognized the need for Thiero to be involved, he added this would still be a “development year” for the rookie.
Lakers rookie Adou Thiero is coming off a 25-point game on 10-for-12 shooting (5-for-5 from 3) with 6 rebounds and 2 blocks in the G League. Could there be minutes on the Lakers?
JJ Redick: “Definitely want to get him opportunities. Those opportunities are not there right now.” pic.twitter.com/sYDzSlLyez— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 9, 2026
Still, Thiero has the tools to help the purple and gold if his number is called, between his highlight-reel athleticism and growth as a shooter and playmaker.
Adou Thiero x Bronny James vs Iowa Wolves:
Bronny James 17 Points 3 Assists 2 Steals 2 Rebounds
Adou Thiero 6 Points 4 Assists 2 Blocks 1 Rebound pic.twitter.com/zrmu4U6OB7
— Laker Performances (@LALPerformance) March 12, 2026
Nick Smith Jr.
Another high-scoring guard in LA’s system, Nick Smith Jr. has stayed hot in the G League, averaging 20.8 points on 54% shooting from the field. He had a red-hot end to February, scoring 24, 30 and 20 points in the month’s final three games.
While Smith Jr.’s three-point shot hasn’t found the same consistency (28% from deep on the season), he nailed two of five attempts from deep Wednesday toward a 14-point outing, and he remains a viable threat as a potential three-level scorer. His rebounding (4.3 per game) and playmaking (6.1) also stand out and aid his versatility, though his defense (0.7 steals, 0.4 blocks) remains a work in progress.
Though the Lakers’ guard rotation is firmly set in stone, expect Smith Jr. to enhance his two-way skill set as the G League season winds down.
