Lakers Get Major Adou Thiero Boost, But New Injury Concern Emerges Before Blazers Game

By admin — In News — November 6, 2026

   ​LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 28: Adou Thiero #1 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena on December 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) GettyINGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 28: Sandro Mamukelashvili #54 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass during the second half of a game against the LA Clippers at Intuit Dome on October 28, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) GettyThe Los Angeles Lakers are finally getting healthier, but their latest injury report brought one unexpected concern.Second-year forward Adou Thiero is no longer listed on the team’s injury report ahead of Friday’s NBA Cup matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, clearing the way for his potential season debut.However, reserve big man Sandro Mamukelashvili has been listed as questionable because of an illness, according to the NBA’s official injury report released Thursday night.The developments come as Los Angeles looks to extend its three-game winning streak following Wednesday’s 116-103 victory over the Sacramento Kings.Lakers Clear Adou Thiero After Lengthy Injury AbsenceThiero’s removal from the injury report represents a significant step forward after he missed the Lakers’ first nine games because of recurring left knee problems.The former Arkansas standout dealt with swelling in the same knee that required surgery in 2025.His recovery included a recent assignment to the Coachella Valley Lakers, where he participated in a live practice Wednesday.Lakers coach JJ Redickconfirmed the session went according to plan.“Practice was fine, went well,” Redick told reporters before Wednesday’s victory in Sacramento. “That was the plan, just to get him a live practice today and then he’ll be back with us.”Redick had previously expressed optimism about Thiero’s progress.“He’s had some live exposures,” Redick said. “And I think he’s trending in the right direction.”Thursday’s injury report provides the strongest indication yet that Thiero is ready to return.However, his absence from the report doesn’t guarantee playing time Friday.Thiero appeared in 25 games as a rookie last season, averaging 1.9 points and 1.1 rebounds in limited minutes.The Lakers hope his athleticism and defensive versatility will eventually provide another option on the wing.Sandro Mamukelashvili Questionable Against Trail BlazersGettySandro Mamukelashvili of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass during the second half of a game against the LA Clippers at Intuit Dome on October 28, 2026