Fans of the LA Clippers are hoping the strategy of manifestation works, as their biggest desire is for the team to have a functional defense. Even if it costs a valuable piece like John Collins, the deal should be done. However, what if there was a way to maintain an expiring like Collins, alleviate the issues other veterans have left behind, and improve coverage?
The unpopular trade proposal fans have overlooked is one with the Portland Trail Blazers, for the two-time all-defensive wing, Matisse Thybulle. In return, LA gives up Brook Lopez and Chris Paul, who are desperately waiting for their flights out of Los Angeles to be booked.
Thybulle has not been mentioned as much of a candidate for the Clippers this trade season, yet it is confusing why, given his background, experience, and the expertise he brings to a team with a bottom-five defensive rating.
The Clippers’ trade for Matisse Thybulle is a win-win for everyone
Matisse Thybulle has never been the wow-type of offensive player. He simply defends hard and takes the open shot when it is available. This explains why he has been in the league for seven seasons and has never eclipsed 7.5 points per game.
Moreover, Thybulle has always had injury concerns. He is currently out indefinitely with a UCL tear in his left thumb, but even before that, the veteran wing has played 84 games since the start of the 2023-24 regular season; he has just been in and out of the Portland Trail Blazers’ lineups.
However, if traded to the LA Clippers, they will wait. Acquiring him eliminates two issues together, Chris Paul and Brook Lopez, and strengthens the overall defense managed by Jeff Van Gundy when his thumb is fully healed.
The Trail Blazers would be happy with this trade, as they move Thybulle’s expiring contract, add a veteran presence for rising stars Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe, and land a backup center through Lopez if Robert Williams III is dealt.
Additionally, Paul is likely the happiest with a trade to the Trail Blazers, as he would still be on the West Coast. It is a short flight from Portland to Los Angeles, which would be complicated yet manageable for the 12-time All-Star.
That said, the Clippers should pursue Thybulle, even if he is injured. He has potential as a 28-year-old wing, and the best part is, LA’s days with Paul and Lopez would finally be over.