Lakers Pursue Former Portland Teammate of Deni Avdija for 2026 Season

As NBA teams prepare for the 2026/2027 season, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking to strengthen their roster following LeBron James' departure. The Lakers have shown interest in acquiring Mathias Thybulle, who played alongside Israeli player Deni Avdija with the Portland Trail Blazers last season. According to reporter Mark Stein, the Lakers have already made an official approach to Thybulle's representatives. The team aims to bolster its wing positions and improve defensive capabilities.

Thybulle, selected 20th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, appeared in 30 games for Portland last season, averaging 5.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 43.3% from the field and 39.8% from three-point range. Over his career, he has played 377 regular-season games with similar statistics. Thybulle began his NBA career with the Philadelphia 76ers after being traded from Boston post-draft, spending four years there before joining Portland in 2023. The Lakers' pursuit reflects their intent to deepen their squad and enhance defensive strength on the wings ahead of the upcoming season.