10 Defensive anchor free agents the Dallas Mavericks should target this offseason

6. Matisse Thybulle

The one catch when it comes to Matisse Thybulle is that he will be a restricted free agent this summer. That means the Portland Trail Blazers will be able to match any offer that he receives in free agency.

But just because the Trail Blazers may match an offer sheet shouldn’t dissuade the Dallas Mavericks from targeting Thybulle, as he could be a serious difference-maker for them on the defensive end.

Ever since his years at the University of Washington, Thybulle has been one of the best defenders in the world. The 6'6 guard averaged 3.5 steals and 2.3 blocks per game in his senior season.

Since joining the NBA, he’s kept up that pace, earning two All-Defensive nods in his four-year career thus far. When he was traded to the Trail Blazers at this year’s deadline, he continued to have success, averaging 1.7 steals per contest.

Having Thybulle on the wing would be a huge asset for the Mavericks, as he could constantly be guarding the opposing team’s best player. Plus, his 3-point shot even showed signs of improvement during his brief time in Portland.

It’s more than likely that Portland decides to re-sign him, meaning the Mavericks would be out of luck. But on the off-chance they decide to reset the roster or simply don’t want him back, Dallas should at least make an offer.

Important note: Unless Thybulle accepts a mid-level, the Mavericks would likely only have enough to make this work if they let Kyrie Irving and Christian Wood walk.