Philadelphia 76ers: Matisse Thybulle’s improving his 3-point shooting
There’s one thing that Matisse Thybulle has been known for since entering the NBA and that has been his ability as a defender. Despite only being in his third season. Thybulle has already been named to an All-Defensive team and is one of the best defensive wings in the NBA.
On the flip side of that coin, Thybulle has struggled on the offensive side of the ball for his whole career. However, that might be changing now with the recent arrival of former MVP James Harden, especially in regards to his 3-point shooting.
The Philadelphia 76ers should be thrilled with Thybulle’s recent 3-point shooting trend.
For this season, Thybulle has averaged 30.8 percent from downtown this season. For his career, he’s shot about 32.3 percent from deep. However, since the arrival of Harden to the starting five, Thybulle has found his range.
Must Read. Sticking with Jordan will cost Rivers his job. light
Prior to the All-Star Break (pre-Harden), Thybulle was averaging 5.6 points on 28.6 percent shooting from behind the arc. Since the All-Star break, the defensive wing has averaged 6.3 points on 38.1 percent from deep. It should be noted in the one game that Harden didn’t play in against the Miami Heat, Thybulle shot 0-1 on his 3-point attempts.
It’s become clear that Harden’s passing is a big part of Thybulle’s improved shooting. Harden’s one of the best floor generals in the league and Thybulle isn’t the only Sixers player that has benefited from Harden’s playmaking. Tyrese Maxey and Georges Niang also have seen improvement, but Thybulle’s shooting is probably the most important improvement.
This improved shooting is still a small sample size and it will take more games for fans and the coaching staff to continue their confidence in his shooting but this is certainly a good first step. If he can become a reliable shooter, he can play more than just 26.0 minutes per game and he would have a real shot at the Defensive Player of the Year award.
The Philadelphia 76ers could become really dangerous if Thybulle can consistently become a good 3-point shooter. If he does, not only does it help his career as a whole, it helps the Sixers’ title odds as well.
Next. Sixers need Milton to be more aggressive. dark