Full Breakdown
Lakers Sign Matisse Thybulle to One-Year Deal
7/24/2026, 11:27:25 AM
Core Event
The Los Angeles Lakers have added former Portland Trail Blazers guard Matisse Thybulle on a one-year veteran-minimum contract. The signing was announced as the team prepared its roster for the 2026-27 season, despite already carrying 15 players, meaning a later move—either a trade or a waiver—will be required before the campaign begins.
Background & Context
Los Angeles entered the offseason seeking a “3-and-D” wing after losing former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart to the Houston Rockets. The club also pursued Jonathan Kuminga, but the Thybulle deal was completed while that pursuit remained active. Thybulle, a two-time NBA All-Defensive Second Team selection, is expected to provide perimeter defense and three-point shooting that the Lakers have lacked.
Data & Statistics
- Over the past two seasons Thybulle appeared in only 45 games because of knee, ankle, thumb and tendinopathy injuries.
- In his first five NBA seasons he played at least 65 games each year, indicating durability before the recent injury stretch.
- Career averages include 1.6 steals per game.
- Shooting from three-point range: 43.8 % in the 2025 season and 39.8 % in the 2025-26 season, with more than three attempts per game each year.
Official Statements & Responses
A source cited by Dan Woike of *The Athletic* confirmed that Thybulle is “fully healthy” heading into the upcoming season. Lakers officials described the signing as a low-risk, high-reward move, noting that a veteran-minimum contract aligns Thybulle’s motivation with a “prove-it” year. The team’s front office highlighted his ability to stretch the floor while defending the perimeter, positioning him as a potential “biggest steal of the summer” if he remains healthy.
Why It Matters
If Thybulle can stay on the court, his defensive versatility and three-point shooting could fill the void left by Smart and complement superstar Luka Doncic’s playmaking. The contract’s modest financial terms give the Lakers flexibility while they continue to explore additional roster upgrades, such as the ongoing interest in Kuminga.
