Although Matisse Thybulle has made the All-Defensive Second Team twice in his first three NBA seasons, he still needs to develop into a reliable offensive player. He has averaged just 2.7 points in 12.1 minutes per game for the Philadelphia 76ers in 45 appearances this season. He also has an expiring contract, so he is eligible for restricted free agency in the offseason.
The inconsistent production and lack of a clear role with the 76ers have negatively impacted Thybulle’s trade value — declining his value to be less than a first-round pick. Given the nature of his impending free agency, it’s natural that teams will try to trade for him.
According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Golden State Warriors are among the teams to discuss trading for Sixers wing Matisse Thybulle.
“Multiple NBA sources said the Golden State Warriors have had internal discussions about Thybulle and that they do like him as a defensive stopper,” Pompey wrote.
The Warriors could offer JaMychal Green, who is on a minimum-salary contract and playing center in Golden State, which may appeal to the Sixers. A complication in a possible deal for Thybulle is that it would be unlikely to involve any of the Warriors’ recently drafted prospects.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Matisse Thybulle, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings & Golden State Warriors Updates
While the Sixers could be intrigued by taking on James Wiseman to add more size, a team trying to get under the luxury tax seems unlikely to take on a $9.6 million salary. There is also the added complication of Philadelphia needing instant impact while Wiseman has yet to prove capable of achieving that.
Marc Stein recently reported on The Stein Line that the Sacramento Kings are also interested in Thybulle, which Pompey confirms, while also noting that Kings coach Mike Brown is a fan of Thybulle. The reporting even suggested that Thybulle would be viewed as a starting option.
“The Sacramento Kings are also reportedly monitoring his availability,” Pompey wrote. “A league source confirmed the interest, saying Kings coach Mike Brown is a fan of Thybulle, who would add a defensive presence to Sacramento’s starting lineup.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Matisse Thybulle, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings & Golden State Warriors Updates
If the Sixers traded Thybulle, who is earning $4.4 million in the final year of his rookie contract, they could consider a few potential options from the Kings. Philadelphia is seeking a backup center, which naturally puts some focus on options like Alex Len, Chimezie Metu, or even Trey Lyles, who has shown to be a productive option as a small ball five in smaller spurts.
