Lakers' Adou Thiero Showcases Explosive Return After Knee Injury

Thiero's dynamic plays spark Lakers momentum despite loss to Spurs

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Adou Thiero, the Lakers' young forward, made a triumphant return to the court after a six-week absence due to a knee injury. In a recent game against the San Antonio Spurs, Thiero displayed his impressive athleticism, blocking a shot by Bismack Biyombo and then finishing an and-1 play with a powerful dunk, sparking the Lakers' momentum despite the team's eventual loss.

Why it matters

Thiero's return is a significant boost for the Lakers, who have been dealing with injuries to key players like Luka Dončić. His ability to make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor showcases his potential and could be crucial for the team's playoff push in the second half of the season.

The details

Thiero's standout sequence began with a blocked shot on Biyombo, followed by a fast-break dunk that he converted into an and-1 play. The young forward had previously participated in practices with the Lakers' G League affiliate and featured in stay-ready games, maintaining his explosiveness before making his return to the main team.

  • Thiero's last game before the injury was on December 30.
  • Thiero returned to action on February 11, ending a six-week absence.

The players

Adou Thiero

A young forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who has shown impressive athleticism and potential, but has been sidelined by a knee injury.

Bismack Biyombo

A veteran center for the San Antonio Spurs who was the target of Thiero's blocked shot during the game.

Bronny James

A Lakers teammate of Thiero who delivered the lob pass that Thiero converted into a dunk.

Jordan McLaughlin

A Spurs player who committed the foul on Thiero's and-1 play.

Luka Dončić

The Lakers' star guard who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, missing several games.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like we have the connection now to where I put my finger in the air, and he already knows to throw the ball up.”

— Adou Thiero, forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

“It always feels good to leave a game without a donut, so that was good.”

— Adou Thiero, forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

“Had that tested out a couple of times already, [Tuesday] wasn't no different from what's been going on in those [five-on-five] games.”

— Adou Thiero, forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

“If I still thought about it, I don't think I'd be out there playing right now, I have 100% trust. I believe in my capabilities. And I know with every cut and jump that [my body will] respond, so very confident.”

— Adou Thiero, forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The Lakers will continue to monitor Thiero's progress as he works to regain his full form and contribute consistently to the team's efforts. His performance against the Spurs has raised expectations, and fans will be eager to see if he can maintain this level of play in upcoming games.

The takeaway

Adou Thiero's explosive return from injury has injected renewed energy into the Lakers' lineup, showcasing his dynamic abilities on both ends of the floor. His confidence and trust in his body's recovery signal a promising outlook not only for Thiero's personal trajectory but also for the Lakers' competitive prospects moving forward.