Lakers Rookie's Success Tied to Major LeBron James Decision

The Los Angeles Lakers had a relatively successful season, landing the fourth seed in the Western Conference for the NBA Playoffs, until injuries struck their starting lineup.

They’ve managed to withstand Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves’ absences due to injury, thanks to LeBron James. He also received help from supporting teammates, including Rui Hachimura, Luke Kennard, and Deandre Ayton. LeBron’s son, Bronny James, has also been getting more time on the court as he develops his game and should continue to be there in the postseason.

Meanwhile, the Lakers also have a rookie in the waiting, Adou Thiero, who was the team’s 36th pick in last year’s draft. The University of Arkansas didn’t get much time on the court, averaging just six minutes per game in 25 appearances.

More news:Bronny James Gets Honest About Lakers Having LeBron James for Playoffs

According to Bleacher Report’s recent NBA rookie grades, Los Angeles received a C- for Thiero, mostly because he hasn’t done much for them yet this season.

That could change, but it seems unlikely to in the postseason. A lot of his future seems like it can and will be impacted by decisions others make, including LeBron, who could be heading to his final season.

It’s unclear if King James will decide to wind down his career in Los Angeles with his son, Bronny, or move on to attempt another championship run with another team. That shortlist, based on speculation, seems to include the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and his former squad, the Cleveland Cavaliers.

LeBron leaving the Lakers in free agency could open up more time for Thiero to play. Additionally, several other players will have big decisions to make, as Reaves and Hachimura will be free agents and could cash in elsewhere.

Thiero’s early numbers aren’t inspiring, as the No. 36 pick had 1.9 points and 1.1 rebounds for the Lakers in his 25 games. But he’s played well in the G League, averaging 15.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in seven games.

The great news for Thiero is that Bronny’s numbers aren’t necessarily jaw-dropping in his second year, but he’s received some time to develop and improve, so the Lakers may do the same once there’s more space in the rotation.

And even if he doesn’t get time for the Lakers, there are plenty of examples of young players who showed their full capabilities in the G League, and other teams decided to add them to their rotations.

More news:Dallas Reporter Reacts to Wings Stopping Azzi Fudd-Paige Bueckers Question

For more about the NBA, head over to Newsweek Sports.

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published April 17, 2026 at 12:43 PM.