Despite being one of coach Chauncey Billups’ favorites, a Matisse Thybulle trade can still happen. He has a place in the Blazers’ rotation, but he could be more helpful on other teams.
The Trail Blazers Can Still Pull Off a Matisse Thybulle Trade
The Portland Trail Blazers pulled off some big moves in the 2025 offseason. They parted ways with longtime guard Anfernee Simons to get Jrue Holiday in return. Damian Lillard made his long-awaited return to Rip City after two seasons away, but he won’t be able to play until 2026-27.
Deandre Ayton had his contract waived and stretched to make space for the young big man core. Robert Williams III is still on the team, but a trade could be on the way.
Williams is not the only player who could be on the trade block. Matisse Thybulle could also be on the move, especially with him playing a lesser role.
A Thybulle Trade Could Open Doors for Other Players
The wings are probably the deepest position in the Trail Blazers’ rotation. Toumani Camara serves as the team’s resident stopper, so he is the starting small forward. Deni Avdija and Jerami Grant could trade for the power forward position, but the former has the leg up.
Even if Thybulle is one of Billups’ favorites, a trade could turn the front office’s heads. He picked up his player option, so Tisse is in the final year of his deal. That also means he will be a more attractive trade piece for other teams.
Thybulle on Chauncey Billups:
“It’s another thing to have a coach who is brilliant and proved it, but also has done it as a player. To have the coaches go over the play, but then to have Chauncey grab the ball and then show you how it’s supposed to be done, just takes things to… pic.twitter.com/3Lqvf1Wh5q
— Brenna Greene (@BrennaGreene_) April 14, 2025
If Thybulle is not on the team, that could lead to more minutes for other players. Kris Murray has not been the most impressive player over the past two seasons. However, if he gets consistent minutes, he could be a breakout player for Portland.
The same goes for Rayan Rupert, who has the physical tools to become a similar player. He possesses the athleticism and wingspan, but needs to improve his defensive instincts.
Other Teams Would Appreciate a Defensive Playmaker
As part of the Blazers’ rotation, Thybulle is not the point-of-attack defender. Camara takes that role, and he does a good job across multiple positions. Thybulle is more of a defensive playmaker, as he loves to play in the passing lanes and get weak-side blocks.
Thybulle has not played as many games in Portland as he did in Philadelphia. However, he still has all the defensive instincts to showcase. That naturally makes him one of Billups’ favorites, but trades are opportunities to look into.
Any team would love a player focused on making a difference on defense. Thybulle loves making flashy defensive plays, including his trademark three-point shot block. He can still do it in Portland, but exploring the market is a valid option.
The Package Will Be Modest
Since Thybulle is not the biggest name on the market, the return could be modest. He has only played 102 games in the past two-and-a-half seasons. That was why he was so happy when he returned in 2025. That could be a red flag for some teams, but he is still a player from a bargain deal.
Joe Cronin and the rest of the Blazers’ front office will be the final decision-makers. Billups would probably prefer sticking with him in the Blazers’ rotation. However, if teams offer the best package, Portland will entertain it.
Blazers fans should not expect a massive return for Thybulle. However, it would be a step in the right direction if they do so. Cronin will decide what’s best for the team. Whether that’s extending Thybulle or trading him, he has probably done his due diligence before making a move.
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