LA Lakers Injury Report (Nov. 2): Adou Thiero’s Debut Looms, Deandre Ayton’s Back Issue Raises Concern vs. Miami Heat

The LA Lakers' injury bug is marginally reducing in size with each passing game. Rookie Adou Thiero, who was out recovering from knee surgery, is inching closer to a return. On Saturday, LA recalled Thiero from its G-League affiliate, South Bay Lakers, where he was ramping up.

According to insider Dan Woike, Thiero could potentially make his NBA debut against the Miami Heat on Sunday. The second-round pick remains listed "out" on the official report, so it remains unlikely that the Lakers upgrade his status.

Meanwhile, center Deandre Ayton has appeared on the Lakers' injury report for the first time. The former No. 1 pick is probable, citing back spasms. Ayton missed the second half of LA's 117-112 win on Friday due to the same issue.

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.

However, coach JJ Redick clarified he could have been on the floor in the fourth quarter, but the Lakers didn't risk it. They were satisfied with backup centers Jaxson Hayes and Jarred Vanderbilt's minutes, who played an instrumental role in the team's comeback. Deandre Ayton aggravating his injury was another concern for Redick and his staff.

The rest of the LA Lakers' injury report is the same as before. LeBron James continues missing time due to sciatica. He could be re-evaluated next in mid-November. Maxi Kleber remains out with an abdominal muscle strain and Gabe Vincent has a left ankle sprain.

Kleber was supposed to be out for at least two weeks since opening night. Meanwhile, Vincent could miss up to four weeks.

The other positive update, apart from Adou Thiero, was Luka Doncic and Marcus Smart's dodging the injury report. Doncic missed three games before returning on Friday against Memphis. He was dealing with a left finger and left leg injury.

Meanwhile, Smart missed two due to a quad injury. He, too, suited up. Both had a questionable status heading into that clash.

Where to watch Miami Heat vs. LA Lakers game?

The Miami Heat vs. LA Lakers game will be available on local TV networks, Spectrum SportsNet (LA) and FanDuel Sports Network Sun (Miami). Viewers outside local regions in the U.S. can stream the game online via Fubo. International viewers can catch live action through the NBA League Pass app.

Edited by Arhaan Raje