The Los Angeles Lakers‘ roster underwent some drastic changes this summer. To address the departure of key figures, the Lakers turned their attention to the free-agent market, acquiring a mix of talented young players and veterans. Among these signings, veteran forward Matisse Thybulle was a particularly intriguing addition.
Matisse Thybulle has made a name for himself as an elite wing defender in the NBA with an unorthodox approach to playing defense. With remarkable physical traits and instincts, Thybulle serves as a vital defensive upgrade, effectively solidifying L.A.’s wing depth.
Needless to say, the veteran will have a big role to play in the Lakers’ rotation next season. Still, Matisse Thybulle seems incredibly aware of the weight that comes with donning the team’s iconic Purple and Gold as he opened up about what being a Laker means to him during a recent interview, stating:
“I think it’s a special opportunity to play for such a historic franchise, an accomplished franchise. To contribute in a jersey that so many great players have worn is something that I’m really excited about.”
The Los Angeles Lakers are arguably one of the biggest franchises in global sports. From the sheer size of the fan base to the championship expectations thrust on the team every year, the Purple and Gold are a brand synonymous with excellence.
With 17 NBA championship banners hanging from the rafters, alongside the jerseys of several great players over the years, the pressure of representing the Lakers is immense. In this regard, Matisse Thybulle’s understanding of the situation is promising.
While there will undoubtedly be pressure on Matisse Thybulle to step up and contribute, joining the Lakers also marks the beginning of a new chapter in his professional career. To commemorate this, the forward opted to wear the No. 26 jersey. His reasoning was also interesting, as he shared:
“I chose 26 because the two numbers I’ve worn in the NBA are 22 and 4. Adds up to 26. So, yeah, I chose this number because I just feel like it’s a new chapter, a fresh start, but still knowing what got me here. There’s a number I’ve never worn, a color I’ve never worn, a whole lot of newness.”
For most players, the number on the back of the jersey can have sentimental value. Many players choose their numbers to honor their favorite players – the No. 23 jersey is a prime example of this. Others, however, may have a more personal touch, dating back to their high school or college days.
For Matisse Thybulle, the No. 26 doesn’t have any specific meaning, but it could be the beginning of something special. With the forward joining the Lakers on a veteran minimum deal, the 29-year-old only has one season to prove his worth.
For the most part, Thybulle can live up to expectations. Although he has struggled with injuries throughout his career, including a majority of last season, he appeared in 26 consecutive games to close out the 2025-26 campaign. During this period, he averaged 5.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game while shooting 41.9% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range.
The sample size may be small, but Matisse Thybulle’s performances were truly noteworthy. Now, with an entire offseason to rest and recuperate, the 29-year-old could enter the new campaign at full strength. Given what he could bring to the table as a defensive disruptor, the Lakers may view his addition favorably.
