LA Clippers Rookie Watch - Yanic Konan Niederhauser

The final pick of the first round rarely makes an immediate impact during their rookie season, but Yanic Konan Niederhauser, the 30th selection of the 2025 NBA Draft, is hoping to change the narrative with the LA Clippers this season. After averaging 12.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks during his junior season with the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Swiss big man decided to make the jump to the professional ranks. 

Standing 6’10”, 215 lbs., with a 7’3” wingspan, Niederhauser, whose middle name, Konan, is based on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Conan the Barbarian, is hoping to bring a warrior-like mentality to the Clippers' defense this season.

After finishing with just 10 blocks during his freshman season in Northern Illinois, Niederhauser averaged 2.1 swats per game during his sophomore year before finishing his college career leading the Big Ten Conference with an average of 2.3 blocks last season, which was also good enough to be ranked 12th in the nation. 

Sitting behind a pair of veterans in Ivica Zubac and Brook Lopez, both worthy and capable starters, Niederhauser has the ability to learn how to impact the game in various ways. Zubac is coming off a career year statistically, giving the Clippers a presence on the low blocks, while Lopez gives the team a different element as a stretch five who is one of the best shot blockers in the league. 

After experiencing some struggles during Summer League, which had some questioning the Clippers scouts, Niederhauser’s defensive potential and soft shooting touch make him an intriguing developmental piece on a veteran-heavy roster. In all likelihood, unless he is picking up blowout game minutes or time with the practice squad, the best place for the Swiss big man will be with the San Diego Clippers, where he can actually get on the floor consistently.

With the Clippers' win-now mentality, Niederhauser’s minutes will be extremely limited, with his best opportunity to shine coming on the defensive end, possibly contributing a couple of rebounds and a shot-altering presence as he patiently waits his turn.