Matisse Thybulle
Range: Middle First Round
We have previously linked the Atlanta Hawks to defensive virtuoso Matisse Thybulle out of Washington as a potential sleeper pick for the team, while also outlining a few reasons why Thybulle to the Hawks would make sense.
In this article, another reason to select Thybulle is his excellent finishing ability around the rim. You’ll notice that this list is dominated by big men, as it is usually easier for them to get off shots around the rim due to their size, length or footwork. As such, it always harder for a guard in the paint than a big.
Thybulle is more of a swingman than a guard, as Washington’s zone defense meant that Thybulle was able to freelance on defense, but his at-rim finishing was special either way. Per Bart Torvik, Thybulle was 35th in the country in at-rim finishing at 75.9 percent (including 39 of 41 on dunks).
How did a 6-foot-5 lithe athlete like Thybulle who did not run much offense on his own get up 79 at-rim attempts? It’s likely tied to his defense.
Thybulle produced striking steals numbers in the 2018-19 season per Sports Reference. He was first in steals per game (3.5) and total steals (126). Many of those steals led to breakaway dunks or layups, which is certainly promising for his rim finishing at the next level.
Even when he was defended, Thybulle’s highly underrated athleticism allowed him to power through defenders with his strong core and lower body.
An amazing defender with terrific finishing ability sounds like a great fit for the Atlanta Hawks, and they should seriously consider taking Thybulle wherever they can in the 2019 NBA Draft.