The NBA offseason is heating up, and the Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of trade rumors as they aim to strengthen their roster for a championship run in the 2025-26 season. With Magic Johnson, the legendary Lakers figure and influential voice in the organization, reportedly pushing for strategic moves, the team is eyeing Portland Trail Blazers’ defensive standout Matisse Thybulle, a $33,075,000 wing known for his elite perimeter defense. This potential acquisition could significantly boost the Lakers’ defensive capabilities and elevate their title odds, especially after their recent signing of former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton. As the 2025 NBA Summer League approaches, trade talks between the Lakers and Trail Blazers are expected to intensify, with Los Angeles looking to capitalize on their assets to secure a player who could be a game-changer.

The Lakers’ interest in Thybulle comes at a time when the team is aggressively reshaping its roster to complement superstars LeBron James and Luka Dončić, both of whom are expected to lead the team in the upcoming season. LeBron, who recently picked up his $52.6 million player option, has expressed his desire to compete for another championship, and the front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, is under pressure to deliver a roster capable of contending in the highly competitive Western Conference. The addition of Ayton, who signed a two-year deal worth $34 million after a contract buyout with Portland, addresses the team’s need for a dominant interior presence. However, the Lakers’ perimeter defense remains a concern, and Thybulle’s skill set makes him an attractive target.

Matisse Thybulle, a 28-year-old defensive specialist, has established himself as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 2.2 steals per game and made a significant defensive impact, with the Trail Blazers performing over three points better per 100 possessions when he was on the floor, according to PBP Stats. His ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and contribute to a team’s defensive identity aligns perfectly with the Lakers’ goal of building a robust defensive unit around their star-studded offense. Additionally, Thybulle has shown improvement in his three-point shooting, making him a more versatile fit for a team looking to balance defense with floor spacing.

Trade discussions between the Lakers and Trail Blazers are reportedly gaining momentum, with Pelinka and Portland’s general manager Joe Cronin sharing a strong professional relationship. The Lakers are considering a package that includes expiring contracts like Maxi Kleber and Shake Milton, along with a 2032 second-round pick, to make the deal work financially. Thybulle, who is in the final year of his $33,075,000 contract, could be an attainable target for the Lakers, who have limited trade assets after their recent moves. However, Thybulle’s injury history is a point of concern, as he missed significant time last season, which could impact negotiations. Despite this, his defensive prowess and potential to thrive alongside LeBron and Dončić make him a valuable piece for a team aiming to compete at the highest level.

The Trail Blazers, meanwhile, are in the midst of a rebuild, focusing on developing young talents like Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and 2024 lottery pick Donovan Clingan. Portland’s recent moves, including trading Anfernee Simons for veteran Jrue Holiday and buying out Ayton’s $35.6 million contract, signal a shift toward prioritizing mentorship and cap flexibility. Trading Thybulle could provide additional assets or cap space, allowing the Blazers to further invest in their young core or pursue other veterans to guide their roster. A deal with the Lakers could be mutually beneficial, as Portland looks to mend fences with former stars like Damian Lillard, who is also rumored to be a potential reunion candidate after his release from the Milwaukee Bucks.

For the Lakers, acquiring Thybulle would signal a clear intent to address their defensive shortcomings while maintaining offensive firepower. With LeBron James entering his age-40 season and Dončić shouldering a significant playmaking load, a defensive anchor like Thybulle could provide the balance needed to compete against elite Western Conference teams like the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors. As the Summer League unfolds, all eyes will be on Las Vegas, where trade talks could shape the Lakers’ championship aspirations. If Magic Johnson’s influence drives this deal to completion, Thybulle could be the missing piece to elevate the Lakers’ title chances in a pivotal season.

Sources: Times of India, Sportskeeda, Yahoo Sports