Lakers Trade Up (Twice!) In 2nd Round, Draft Arkansas Wing Adou Thiero

The Lakers didn't have a first round pick in this year's NBA Draft, but they did enter Thursday's Day 2 with the 55th pick. One they managed to red paper clip their way—with the benefit of a little cash‚up to the 45th selection, and then with one more trade, up to 36. There, they selected Arkansas forward Adou Thiero, a 6'8" (6'6.25" at the Combine) wing with top level athleticism and an insane motor. He lacks offensive polish, but at that stage of the Draft represents an excellent gamble. 

If he's able to develop enough of an offensive game, Thiero will fill a major need on the roster, namely athleticism and defense. 

Moreover, the Lakers were solid in their process here, using the tool they had available (money) to get a player they wanted with a skill set they lacked. Were he a fully polished player, Thiero wouldn't have been available this late in the Draft. But there are reasons to believe he's got potential to improve as a shooter. 

We break it down with special guest Claire de Lune, who does outstanding work covering the NBA for The Guardian. 

Where do the Lakers go from here? How hard will it be to build a team that can compete in a brutal Western Conference? 

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: The Lakers trade up, get wing from Arkansas. 
 

SEGMENT 2: Can the Lakers pick up a C? 

SEGMENT 3: Competing in a brutal Western Conference. 

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