The Portland Trail Blazers’ defensive specialist, Matisse Thybulle, didn’t take the court until March 16, missing the majority of the season due to health setbacks.
But in the 15 games he did play, Thybulle showed signs of progress on the offensive end, averaging a career-best 7.5 points per game while shooting an impressive 48% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc.
With signs pointing toward the player exercising his $11.55 million player option for the 2025–26 season, the 28-year-old is already setting his sights on what a healthy, full season could bring for him and the team.
“I can’t wait to get a full season under our belts,” Thybulle said. “Because this whole year, especially as we forged our identity as being a defensive team, I was just chomping at the bit.”
A two-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, Thybulle is known for his elite perimeter defense. His delayed return meant he had to watch from the sidelines as Portland’s younger core worked to establish themselves under head coach Chauncey Billups.
But now, with Billups recently securing a contract extension, Thybulle says there’s a renewed sense of optimism around the organization – and he’s eager to be part of what’s building in Rip City.
“Chauncey getting his extension is really exciting,” he said. “And definitely makes me optimistic for running it back with these guys.”
Though official word on Thybulle’s player option is still pending, his comments strongly suggest he sees himself in Portland’s plans moving forward.
With a full offseason to get healthy and a young roster growing under a now-stabilized coaching staff, Thybulle could play a pivotal role in helping shape the team’s defensive identity next season.
Matisse Thybulle Sees Himself In Portland, Excited For Trail Blazers Future https://t.co/D1mXAFB9GR
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 18, 2025
