The Lakers may not be done making moves this offseason, with a two-time All-Defensive wing reportedly emerging as their latest free-agent target.
The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be keeping their options open as they continue evaluating ways to strengthen their roster before the start of the 2026-27 NBA season.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Lakers have registered interest in free agent forward Matisse Thybulle, one of the league's most respected perimeter defenders. While no deal has been reported, the interest suggests L.A. is still exploring opportunities to add another defensive-minded wing after an active offseason.
The Lakers have already reshaped much of their roster this summer, but perimeter defense remains an area the front office continues to explore with the recent signing of Ziaire Williams to their wing core.
Thybulle's defensive reputation and experience could make him an appealing fit alongside the team's current core.
A Defensive Specialist Available on the Market
Thybulle has built his NBA career around making life difficult for opposing scorers. A two-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, he has consistently been among the league's leaders in steals and deflections while guarding multiple positions.
The 29-year-old spent last season with the Portland Trail Blazers, appearing in 30 games while averaging 5.8 points and 2.0 rebounds. He also shot a career-best 39.8% from 3-point range.
Across seven NBA seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers and Trail Blazers, Thybulle has averaged 5.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Although he has never been a high-volume scorer, his value has consistently come from his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Even in limited minutes, Thybulle has shown he can change possessions with steals, blocks and timely defensive plays.
Could Thybulle Fit in L.A.?
CJ McCollum (3) drives past Portland Trail Blazers guard Matisse Thybulle (4) in the third quarter at State Farm Arena.If the Lakers ultimately sign Thybulle, his role would likely center around providing defensive depth off the bench around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
L.A. has added several new pieces this offseason, but adding another proven perimeter defender could help balance the roster.
Thybulle's willingness to defend the opposing team's best scorer would allow the Lakers a lot more versatility to plug and play different lineups for head coach JJ Redick.
Olivier-Maxence Prosper (18) drives to the basket as Portland Trail Blazers guard Matisse Thybulle (4) defends during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. His improved outside shooting also makes him a more intriguing fit than in previous years.
In 45 games over the last two seasons for the Blazers, Thybulle has shot a combined 41.8% from 3. If that shot can be consistent, he will have a bigger role for this Lakers team than in Portland.
No agreement has been reached, and free agency can change quickly, but the reported interest signals the Lakers are still looking for ways to improve before the regular season begins.
If the two sides can reach common ground, Thybulle could become another low-risk addition capable of making a meaningful impact on L.A.'s defense.
