Philadelphia 76ers Rookie Report: Matisse Thybulle struggles on defense

The Philadelphia 76ers top rookie had two main struggles this past week, one on the court and one off the court, with both being concerning.

Like most rookies, the ones on the Philadelphia 76ers have had their highs and lows this season. For the Sixers top rookie, this week proved to be one of the lowest points of his season both on and off the court.

20th pick, 2019

It’s true that from a shooting perspective, Matisse Thybulle had a solid week. However, the rookie struggled on the defensive end which has been his calling card all season long. In three games this past week, he totaled 12 fouls to only two steals. Foul problems has been an issue at times for Thybulle in this season, but if he has a lot of fouls in the game, it’s usually results in some steals and/or blocks as well.

It probably didn’t help that Thybulle was also snubbed from the Rising Star Challenge for All-Star weekend. If his agent wasn’t happy about it, then imagine how he felt. Overall, it wasn’t a good week for Thybulle.

54th pick, 2019

Marial Shayok continued his good play from last week and was a legit scoring option again this week on the 76ers G-League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats. Against the Canton Charge, he had 20 points and nine rebounds. He also tallied up 29 points against the Erie Bayhawks.

Undrafted

Sadly, without Philly making any moves, Norvel Pelle is still in limbo. It should be noted that he didn’t play in either of the Blue Coats games this past week. Until the Sixers decide make a move or not before the NBA trade deadline, his future won’t be known either way.

It was a down week for Thybulle, but expect the Philadelphia 76ers top rookie to bounce back. He has the motivation to do so and probably will.