The Los Angeles Lakers are doing everything they can to build a contender around Luka Doncic, and the work is still ongoing two weeks into free agency. In the aftermath of their latest signing (young forward Ziaire Williams), the Lakers are at maximum roster capacity, but it hasn’t stopped them from quietly pursuing several more notable free agents.
At the top of their list is veteran swingman Matisse Thybulle, who remains unsigned after a modest stint with the Trail Blazers. According to one insider, Thybulle is just one of several wing targets, which also includes former Warrior Jonathan Kuminga.
“The Lakers have again broadened their search for perimeter defense,” reported Marc Stein, “registering interest this week in free agent Matisse Thybulle. They have already added Ziaire Williams while also continuing to pursue Jonathan Kuminga.”
The Lakers would have to make room to add any additional players, and we already know which ones they are most likely to trade. This summer, Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, and Jake LaRavia have (reportedly) already been a part of some negotiations, but they have yet to settle on an actual trade. To make room for Thybulle, the Lakers would need to first offload one of those players in exchange for cash or a second-round draft pick. Alternatively, they could just release one of them into free agency.
At 29 years old, Thybulle isn’t going to make any drastic improvements to his game, but he’s still someone who can contribute in areas the Lakers need help. While the 6’5″ veteran has struggled to stay healthy over the years (just 30 games in 2025-26), he’s known for his elite perimeter defense on the wing. With career averages of 5.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game on 43.8% shooting from the field, Tybulle wouldn’t play a massive role for the Lakers, but he could provide a crucial spark off the bench to keep the team afloat while their stars are on the bench.
Of course, there’s also Jonathan Kuminga, who is the much riskier and less likely option. The word is that he’s seeking at least $25 million in his next contract, which means the Lakers probably can’t afford him. Even so, with an opportunity to start and no better offers on the table, Kuminga may be inclined to accept the deal if the situation doesn’t change.
Whether it’s Thybulle or Kuminga, the Lakers clearly have their eyes set on tweaking the frontcourt right now, and it makes a lot of sense. Since LeBron’s departure, they haven’t found any fitting replacement, and there remains a major hole at the small forward position. If the Lakers leave it unfilled, they will be vulnerable in the frontcourt and helpless against certain matchups.
While Matisse Thybulle is hardly the name fans were hoping for, he’s arguably the best choice right now for what the Lakers can afford. Plus, with LeBron James holding up the entire market, now is the perfect opportunity to make a move before things get hectic. Much remains to be seen at this point, but don’t think the Lakers are entirely done after picking up Ziaire Williams.
