Lakers rumors: LA targeting 1 player who could fill huge need

The Los Angeles Lakers bolstered their interior defense with the blockbuster trade for center Walker Kessler. Now, Rob Pelinka is focused on solidifying the perimeter to take the defensive load off Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Matisse Thybulle, a two-time All-Defensive team selection, is on the Lakers’ free agency radar, Marc Stein reports. The seven-year NBA veteran started his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he earned those two All-Defense nods. He’s spent the last 3.5 seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, though he’s played sparingly due to various injuries.

Still, Thybulle is only 29 and remains the elite perimeter defender L.A. desires. The only question is whether the team can afford him. After extending Reaves and shelling out contracts to free agents Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton, the Lakers can only offer minimum deals.

It’s unclear whether Thybulle would accept the minimum at this point of his career, but perhaps the opportunity to fill an important role on a contending team would pique his interest.

McGrady, a seven-time NBA All-Star, spoke glowingly about the Lakers’ offseason overhaul on the Cousins podcast with Vince Carter.

“I think Rob (Pelinka) is doing a good job over there,” McGrady said. “It looks crazy. But I actually like what he’s doing. I think he’s surrounding Luka with some pretty good pieces.”