Lakers Rookie Thiero Progressing After Knee Injury

Thiero assigned to G League team as he recovers from sprained MCL

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Los Angeles Lakers have received positive news on rookie forward Adou Thiero, who has been out since late December with a sprained right MCL. Thiero has been assigned to the team's G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, and participated in his first full-contact "stay-ready" practice this week, a sign of his progress. However, Thiero will not play in the Lakers' upcoming games against the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, though he could potentially return after the All-Star break.

Why it matters

Thiero's recovery is important for the Lakers, who have been dealing with injuries to key players like Luka Doncic. The rookie forward has shown promise in limited minutes this season and his return could provide a boost to the team's rotation.

The details

Thiero, 21, has averaged 1.3 points, 1.2 rebounds, 0.3 assists and 0.3 steals in 15 games for the Lakers this season. He was diagnosed with the MCL sprain in late December and has been sidelined since. The Lakers have assigned him to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, where he participated in his first full-contact practice this week, a positive sign in his recovery.

  • Thiero was diagnosed with the right knee MCL sprain in late December 2025.
  • Thiero was assigned to the South Bay Lakers this week and participated in his first full-contact practice.
  • Thiero will not play in the Lakers' games against the Thunder on February 9 or the Spurs on February 10.
  • Thiero could potentially return to the Lakers' lineup after the All-Star break, when they face the Dallas Mavericks.

The players

Adou Thiero

A 21-year-old rookie forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who has been sidelined since late December with a sprained right MCL.

Luka Doncic

The Lakers' superstar guard who will also miss the upcoming games against the Thunder and Spurs due to a hamstring injury.

Austin Reaves

The Lakers guard who has been playing well since returning from a left calf strain and will take on a larger role with Doncic out.

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What they’re saying

“Thiero participated in his first full-contract stay-ready game since the injury earlier this week.”

— Dave McMenamin, ESPN reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

Thiero could be in line to play in South Bay's next game on Wednesday against the San Diego Clippers. His timeline for a return to the Lakers' lineup is unclear, but he could potentially rejoin the team after the All-Star break.

The takeaway

Thiero's progress is a positive sign for the Lakers, who have dealt with several key injuries this season. His return could provide a boost to the team's rotation as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.