Lakers Sign Matisse Thybulle, Face Potential Roster Adjustments

1 month ago 0

The Los Angeles Lakers have secured a key addition to their roster by signing Matisse Thybulle to a one-year, $3.3 million deal. Known for his elite defensive skills, Thybulle offers the Lakers a strong perimeter presence. This acquisition comes at a team-friendly, veteran minimum rate.

With this signing, the Lakers now hold 16 contracts for the 2026-27 season, exceeding the league’s standard limit of 15. As a result, the team will need to release or trade a player before the season begins.

According to John Hollinger of The Athletic, Bronny James is one potential candidate for the Lakers to waive. If they choose to stretch his $2.2 million salary, it would enable them to remain under the luxury-tax threshold. However, there is belief that Jaden Hardy might be more likely to be released. Hardy is owed $6 million next year and may not fit the Lakers’ needs as well as other players.

Dalton Knecht ($4.2 million) and Adou Thiero ($2.1 million) also have contracts that might be moved. While the Lakers could trade these players, complications arise since Hardy’s contract cannot be bundled with others in a trade. If trading proves difficult, an outright release may be necessary.

Bronny James has been part of trade discussions in recent weeks. LeBron James recently indicated he plans to play elsewhere in 2026-27, fueling speculations that Bronny may follow. However, Dan Woike from The Athletic has stated that their futures are not necessarily linked.

Bronny contributed an average of 2.9 points in 8.9 minutes per game last year and spent additional time with the G League’s South Bay Lakers. Despite this, no current plans suggest his departure.

Meanwhile, Jaden Hardy averaged 9.2 points in 15.8 minutes per game while playing for both the Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards last season. His shooting ability adds depth to the second unit, supporting Collin Sexton, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves.

As the regular season approaches, it’s possible the Lakers might reconsider their roster configurations to facilitate strategic trades including players like Bronny.