The Los Angeles Lakers have made it clear they want to build a younger roster around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Following LeBron James’ departure in free agency, the team’s biggest need is finding a starting-caliber wing.
The Lakers have been active on the market, targeting young, athletic players to fill that role. One player they continue to pursue is Jonathan Kuminga.
“There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
With negotiations taking longer than expected, the Lakers have also expressed interest in veteran 3-and-D wing Matisse Thybulle.
“The Lakers have again broadened their search for perimeter defense, league sources say, registering interest this week in free agent Matisse Thybulle. They have already added Ziaire Williams while also continuing to pursue Jonathan Kuminga,” The Stein Line’s Marc Stein wrote.
Although signing both players could prove difficult, there is a growing belief that Thybulle should be a priority regardless of what happens with Kuminga. Lake Show Life’s Maxwell Ogden recently made that case.
“If the Lakers can get a clean bill of health for Thybulle in 2026, then they shouldn’t be afraid to gamble on that efficiency translating to an offense where Luka Doncic consistently generates open looks for his teammates. For a Lakers team that desperately needs defensive-minded wings who can excel both on and away from the ball, signing Thybulle to a minimum contract should be a no-brainer. Kuminga is an understandable priority due to his untapped potential, but Thybulle should be a priority signing regardless of what else transpires,” Ogden wrote.
There is no denying that signing Thybulle would carry some risk because of his injury history. However, his defensive production could make that gamble worthwhile, especially if the Lakers are able to sign him to a team-friendly contract.
Thybulle has earned $45 million during his NBA career. The Lakers are in need of a defensive-minded wing after struggling on that end of the floor over the past several seasons. If healthy, Thybulle could make an immediate impact on Los Angeles’ defense.
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