Regarding Yanic Konan Niederhauser, no one really knows how his sophomore season would unfold. He was doing great, but unfortunately, the 2025 first-round pick suffered a Lisfranc injury, which requires a lengthy recovery. Therefore, he could look like a new and improved version of himself, or someone who faced a setback too strong to overcome.
Well, Joey Linn, a beat writer for the LA Clippers, shared an update on Niederhauser, primarily highlighting that he has gained 27 pounds. As a result, it’s safe to say things are looking better than good, as this is a strong indication that a dominant year two is on the way for the fan-favorite center.
All it will take is time, considering Niederhauser may not return until December, or even January.
When Yanic Konan Niederhauser returns, he’ll be unstoppable
At 238 pounds, the weight Yanic Konan Niederhauser was at before he encountered a season-ending injury, he was establishing himself as a nightmare for opponents. They couldn’t stop him on offense, as he’s well-coordinated, can finish, and is a rim rocker. Defensively, Niederhauser knew how to use his athleticism to make timely blocks and protect the rim at a high level.
In fact, over the 12 games Niederhauser suited up for from Feb. 4 to March 4, when he was finally playing in a hard-earned role, the Penn State product posted 6.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks, averaging 15.8 minutes.
Additionally, during this span, Niederhauser recorded four blocks on two separate occasions, had arguably his best game of the season against the Minnesota Timberwolves with 15 points and six boards while going perfect from the floor, and a handful of possessions where star potential was flashed.
Now, imagine the same player, returning to play from injury, with 27 extra pounds on him. For context, Ivica Zubac, one of the better, stronger centers the LA Clippers have ever had on the roster, is currently listed at 240 lbs.
This literally spells doom for the rest of the league. Niederhauser will be even more of a force in the paint than he already is, with a focus on bully ball that no team will be able to contain.
That said, it’s clear Niederhauser has been making the most of his time in recovery. Doing so will lead him to reach new heights, as a good bit of extra muscle could easily transform his sophomore season in the NBA.
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