Los Angeles Lakers sign Matisse Thybulle on one-year deal to strengthen defence: reports

Los Angeles Lakers have agreed a one-year contract worth $3.3 million with free agent forward Matisse Thybulle, according to international media reports on Monday.

The two-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection reportedly held discussions with Lakers head coach JJ Redick and star guard Luka Doncic during free agency before deciding to join the franchise.

The conversations focused on the club's ambition to strengthen its wing defence and the role Thybulle is expected to play next season.

Thybulle arrives in Los Angeles after spending the previous campaign with the Portland Trail Blazers.

Although he featured in only 45 games across the past two seasons, he remained an efficient perimeter shooter, converting 41.8 per cent of his three-point attempts during that period.

Entering his eighth NBA season, Thybulle reportedly explored the possibility of remaining with Portland.

However, sources indicated that the Trail Blazers did not make a significant effort to retain him, offering only non-guaranteed contracts for much of the free agency period.

The Lakers also explored potential sign-and-trade options with Portland, which would have allowed Thybulle to secure a more lucrative contract, but the two franchises were unable to reach an agreement.

The signing takes the Lakers' roster to 16 players on guaranteed contracts, leaving the organisation with decisions to make before the regular season begins in late October.

The franchise is expected to continue assessing trade opportunities to create roster flexibility.

Meanwhile, the Lakers have also agreed a two-way NBA contract with forward Arthur Kaluma.