Small forward Matisse Thybulle is projected to be a late first round pick on NBA Draft night. The four-year starter, defensive-minded Washington Basketball product is sure to help out whichever team selects him. The question is just what team lands the talented Thybulle?
Matisse Thybulle is considered to have the prototype wing size standing at 6’6″ with a 7-0 wingspan and weighing 201 lbs. His size and reach helps his defensive-minded game-plan and that statistics prove it. With some scouts considering Thybulle to be one of the most impactful defenders in the draft, averaging 3.5 steals and 2.3 blocks per game in his senior year at Washington Basketball.
Compare this to the top three prospects at the same position. Cam Reddish averaged 1.6 steals with 0.6 blocks a game. Nassir Little showed even less defensive production with only 0.5 steals and blocks per game. While Romeo Langford did slightly better with 0.8 blocks and steals a game. Keep in mind Matisse Thybulle is ranked 7th at his position and 32nd overall according to ESPN.
Although Thybulle’s numbers drop in the offensive game they are still comparable with the top three prospects at small forward. While his 9.1 points per game is the lowest of the four it’s just under Nassir Little’s 9.8. Although Cam Reddish averaged 13.5 and Romeo Langford managed 16.5 points per game. The story is also similar when it comes to rebounds, with Thybulle’s 3.1 being the least of the group. This time Reddish would barely average more than the Washington forward with 3.7. With Nassir Little and Romeo Langford averaging 4.6 and 5.4 rebounds a game respectfully. Still with Thybulle’s defensive numbers leading the pack by far it’s easy to see a team drafting him will get a very rounded ball player.
Scouts that have seen Thybulle’s defensive efforts notice it’s effectiveness is due to his quick hands, speed to chase down blocks, with tools and instincts to cover multiple positions at the professional level. Scouts also shine light on his offensive game noting he has a solid feel it with an understanding of his role. it’s noted Thybulle will make the extra pass with a 2.8 assists per 40 minutes career average, as well as a positive assist-to-turnover ratio to compliment. Proving he is willing to be a team player with the ability to make educated decisions on the court.
Of course the scouts wouldn’t be doing their job if they didn’t find areas that could use improvement. One thing scouts noticed was Thybulle’s decrease in efficient three-point shooting in his last year with Washington. In his first three seasons the wing was able to record over 36 percent of his shots from deep off 350 plus attempts. His senior year the percentage significantly dropped to only 30.5. Scouts feel this drop off happened due to flawed mechanics that really break down when contested and a hesitation to take the open shot.
Most of the scouts worries come up in Thybulle’s offensive game with them feeling he doesn’t have a true role other than a fifth option offensively. Scouts feel he lacks ball handling skills and feel he’s limited to transition run outs and spot up plays. Scouts also have concerns in his physicality on defense worrying if bigger NBA wings will just power through the young player.
With all of that being said Thybulle was still a four-year starter at Washington and is a great defensive player with a bunch of potential. According to this mock draft Thybulle will land at the 25th spot and go to Portland. While this pick up would be a great addition for the Trailblazers it wouldn’t be a surprise if another team (like the Thunder, Sixers, Magic, or Jazz) snatches him up anywhere after the 15th pick. Regardless of what team lands the prospect it’s certain they’ll get a disciplined, rounded, and effective defender to bolster their team.