After signing a minimum contract, Matisse Thybulle says the Lakers have given him a crystal‑clear role that lets his defensive instincts shine.
Key points
- Thybulle’s role with the Lakers is deliberately centered on his defensive IQ and perimeter abilities.
- He delivered a 13‑point, 2‑steal performance against the Clippers, showcasing his offensive contribution when given space.
- Coach JJ Redick emphasizes a simplified, strength‑based usage, allowing Thybulle to focus on reading passing lanes and corner shooting.
- Practice matchups against elite guards are expected to accelerate Thybulle’s development and benefit the team’s overall defense.
Free‑agent perimeter defender Matisse Thybulle entered the 2026‑27 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, signing a minimum deal after being touted as a two‑time All‑Defensive honoree. The team, navigating a roster that includes nine new players, quickly identified a specific wing role for him that leans on his strengths.
“It’s extremely clear… we all know as players what our strengths are and this team has created a landscape where naturally our strengths are what is highlighted,” Thybulle told reporters after the Lakers’ Friday win, underscoring the clarity he feels under head coach JJ Redick’s system.
Clear role defined by coach
Injuries early in the season propelled Thybulle into the starting lineup, where he has been tasked with reading passing lanes and acting as a “free safety” on defense. He praised the coaching staff for valuing his skill set rather than trying to reshape his game, noting, “Being valued for your skillset and having that be what’s wanted… is nice.”
Against the L.A. Clippers, Thybulle posted his best Lakers performance to date, scoring 13 points on 5‑of‑8 shooting, including 3‑of‑6 from three‑point range, and adding two steals. The stat line reflected Redick’s strategy of picking up guards full‑court and giving Thybulle space in the corners on offense.
Defensive impact in early games
Practicing against star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, Thybulle believes the experience will sharpen his own play while helping his teammates improve. He highlighted that guarding these players in practice is a two‑way benefit that aligns with the team’s defensive emphasis.
Reader questions
What specific role does Matisse Thybulle play for the Lakers?
He is used primarily as a perimeter defender who reads passing lanes, plays a “free safety” role, and receives corner‑space opportunities on offense.
How has Thybulle performed so far this season?
His most notable game came against the Clippers, where he scored 13 points on 5‑of‑8 shooting, hit three of six three‑pointers, and recorded two steals.
What does coach JJ Redick say about Thybulle’s usage?
Redick has kept Thybulle’s responsibilities simple—picking up guards full‑court, leveraging his defensive IQ, and allowing him space in the corners rather than overcomplicating his role.
Source: lakersnation.com