Free agent forward Matisse Thybulle has agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to reports from ESPN. The deal aims to address the Lakers’ need for perimeter defense, a specialty of the two-time All-Defensive team selection.
Thybulle, entering his eighth NBA season, reportedly held discussions with Lakers head coach JJ Redick and star player Luka Doncic during the free agency process. These conversations were instrumental in his decision to choose Los Angeles, as he sought a role that would allow him to contribute immediately to the team’s defensive rotation. Over the past two seasons, Thybulle has demonstrated improved offensive efficiency, shooting 41.8% from behind the 3-point line.
The move follows a challenging period for the swingman, who was limited to 30 regular-season appearances last year due to a midseason knee injury. Despite the limited playing time, he maintained a high level of defensive production, averaging 2.0 steals per game in just 16.0 minutes of action. According to ESPN Research, Thybulle led the league in steals and deflections per 36 minutes last season among players with at least 20 appearances.
Prior to joining the Lakers, Thybulle engaged in talks with the Portland Trail Blazers regarding a potential return. However, sources indicate that the player felt the Blazers were not committed to his retention, citing the team’s reliance on non-guaranteed offers throughout free agency. While both teams explored sign-and-trade scenarios to potentially increase Thybulle’s salary, an agreement between the clubs could not be reached.
The signing brings the Lakers’ roster to 16 guaranteed contracts. As the team approaches the late October season opener, the front office is expected to explore further trades to consolidate the roster. The organization had also pursued unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, though those discussions have reportedly stalled.