Matisse Thybulle, the defensive maestro who bagged two All-Defensive Second Team accolades, is already dropping some serious wisdom on second-year wing Adou Thiero, a move that could unlock some scary defensive potential for the Lakers. Thybulle, who’s been tasked with guarding every kind of offensive star out there during his eight-year career, is known for his anticipation, timing, and flat-out ability to cause chaos on the court. We’re talking 2.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per 36 minutes for his career, numbers that scream “disruptor.”
Thybulle’s Defensive Masterclass in Progress
Since Thybulle signed with the Lakers this summer, it looks like he’s been pouring all that defensive knowledge into Thiero. The young wing definitely has the athletic gifts to be a defensive force, and it seems Thybulle is making sure that potential gets unleashed. Thiero himself told reporters after an October 6 loss to the Warriors that they’ve been “talking about defense.” He added, “That’s what he’s been helping me with the whole time. Just letting me know to pick my spots when I want to be aggressive, when not to, ways to keep the ball in front and just telling me different things defensively.” This isn’t just theory either, it’s showing up on the court.
Thiero’s Preseason Sparks Show Why This Matters
And it’s not like Thiero’s just listening; he’s applying it! In just 55 minutes this preseason, the guy has already snagged four steals and two blocks. Two steals and two blocks came in a single game against the Sacramento Kings. Seriously, he pulled off some eye-popping defensive plays during that game: rotating perfectly to deflect and steal a Maxime Raynaud short-roll pass, battling around a screen to stick to Darius Acuff Jr. and get a hand on his jumper, and completely containing a Precious Achiuwa drive before blocking his shot. Remember that block on Acuff where Thiero picked him up full court, chased over back pressure, then swatted his jumper? Yeah, that was wild. Coach JJ Redick even pointed out after their preseason opener against the Kings that the “disruption we talked about carried over,” especially after they forced Sacramento into 27 turnovers. They forced 51 more turnovers across the next two games, and while preseason usually has inflated turnover numbers, it’s clear the Lakers are trying to be a super disruptive defensive squad. Thiero’s size and athleticism are gonna amplify that identity, and Thybulle’s insights are totally accelerating the young forward’s development.
The next game is a chance for Thiero to keep showing off that improved defensive game. With Thybulle’s guidance, this young gun could become a serious problem for opposing offenses. Keep an eye on how that defensive disruption keeps rolling.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Silver Screen and Roll.
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