76ers Rumors: Matisse Thybulle Monitored by Kings Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline

The Sacramento Kings are reportedly "monitoring the availability" of Philadelphia 76ers guard Matisse Thybulle ahead of the Feb. 9 trade deadline, according to NBA reporter Marc Stein (h/t Hoops Hype).

Thybulle was named second-team All-Defense in each of the last two years, but he's seen a reduced role this season in Philadelphia after the team's addition of De'Anthony Melton. He's currently averaging 2.7 points in 12.1 minutes per game, starting just six of his 45 appearances in 2022-23.

Last year, the guard started 50 of 66 games while averaging 25.5 minutes.

After finishing fifth on the 76ers in minutes last year, Thybulle currently ranks 10th on the team.

Though the 76ers have championship aspirations, Thybulle has seemingly become expendable in the rotation, so the 25-year-old could end up on the trade block before he becomes a restricted free agent in the offseason.

The Kings would represent an ideal fit as they look to secure a playoff spot for the first time since 2006. The team entered Tuesday third in the Western Conference with a 28-21 record, although it is ranked 21st in the NBA in defensive efficiency.

Sacramento relies on an offensive-minded backcourt with De'Aaron Fox and Kevin Huerter, but the Kings have been 9.1 points worse overall per 100 possessions with reserve guard Malik Monk on the court this season, per Basketball Reference, the team's lowest mark among players with at least 300 minutes.

Thybulle would provide an immediate boost defensively with his ability to guard multiple positions on the perimeter.

The former Washington star ranked third in the NBA in defensive box plus-minus last year, trailing only superstars Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo. He was also one of only five players to average at least one block and one steal per game.

It could make Thybulle an intriguing target ahead of the Feb. 9 deadline.