Adou Thiero gave Lakers fans an encouraging glimpse of his potential during Summer League. While he’s still a raw prospect, the physical tools and defensive versatility are undeniable, leaving many wondering what his long-term role could become. If everything clicks, an Aaron Gordon-type role may be the ideal blueprint for his NBA future.
During the Summer League broadcast, former five-time All-Star John Wall offered a compelling comparison, saying Thiero could develop into an Aaron Gordon-type player if he becomes a reliable corner three-point shooter.
The Shooting Will Determine His Ceiling
Wall emphasized that the corner three is the skill that could transform Thiero’s offensive value. Reaching the 37 to 38 percent range would force defenders to stay attached instead of helping off him, creating more room for stars to attack while allowing Thiero to capitalize on open looks.
That is the role Gordon has mastered in Denver. Rather than dominating the ball, he spaces the floor just enough to punish defenses, attacks open lanes, finishes above the rim, and thrives by making the right play. It is a role that doesn’t always produce All-Star numbers, but it consistently contributes to winning basketball.
For Thiero, developing into a dependable corner shooter could unlock that same blueprint.
Defense and Athleticism
The encouraging part for the Lakers is that many of the other qualities Wall described are already strengths in Thiero’s game. Throughout the pre-draft process and during Summer League, he showcased the combination of size, strength, lateral quickness, and defensive versatility that allows him to guard multiple positions.
His athleticism also makes him an ideal lob threat. Whether running the floor in transition or cutting from the weak side, Thiero has the explosiveness to finish plays well above the rim. Those are skills that typically translate quickly, even while a player’s jump shot continues to develop.
That combination of defense, cutting, screening, and vertical spacing is what has made Gordon such an effective complement alongside Nikola Jokic.
The Fit in LA
The comparison becomes even more intriguing when considering the Lakers’ current roster. Luka Doncic has built his career around elevating athletic forwards and centers by creating easy scoring opportunities through his elite passing and ability to manipulate defenses.
If Thiero develops into the reliable corner shooter Wall described, defenders will no longer be able to sag off him. That would create additional driving lanes for Doncic while also opening opportunities for Thiero to cut behind the defense, finish lobs, and make winning plays without needing the ball.
It is easy to see why Wall immediately identified Gordon as the ideal comparison, especially given the type of role the Lakers could eventually ask Thiero to fill.
Development Remains the Biggest Factor
The expectation should not be that Thiero becomes that player overnight. Like most young wings entering the NBA, his shooting consistency will determine how quickly he earns meaningful minutes, making the development of his corner three one of the organization’s top priorities.
Wall’s comments give a realistic path for Thiero, not just a far-fetched comparison. If Thiero can hit corner threes, defend different positions, catch lobs, and help the team without needing the ball, the Lakers might have found the kind of forward every contender wants.
