Matisse Thybulle Poised for Knicks Role After Dalton Knecht Two-Way Deal

Quick Takeaways

Table of Contents

• Matisse Thybulle and Knicks Roster Outlook
• Defensive Metrics Comparison
• Knicks Two‑Way Contracts and Roster Flexibility
• Dalton Knecht Background and Immediate Impact
• Timeline of Recent Knicks Moves
• Future Outlook and Official Statements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Will Matisse Thybulle make the Knicks’ regular‑season roster?
• How does Dalton Knecht’s two‑way deal affect the Knicks’ salary cap?
• What role could Thybulle play alongside RJ Barrett?

• Core Insight: Matisse Thybulle emerges as a viable rotation piece for the New York Knicks following the signing of ex‑Laker Dalton Knecht.
• Key Highlight: Knecht’s two‑way contract frees a 15‑man roster spot, allowing the Knicks to consider a 3‑and‑D upgrade with Thybulle.
• Actionable Advice: Knicks fans should monitor the preseason training camp roster; Thybulle is likely to earn a guaranteed spot if he showcases perimeter defense.

NEW YORK, Oct 24 (Reuters) — Matisse Thybulle, the 27‑year‑old forward, is being evaluated for a bench role as the Knicks finalize a two‑way deal with former Laker Dalton Knecht. The move, announced Tuesday, opens a roster slot that could accommodate Thybulle’s defensive skill set.

Matisse Thybulle and Knicks Roster Outlook

Thybulle, a 2020 first‑round pick who spent the last three seasons with the Boston Celtics, recorded 7.2 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game in 2025‑26. His career 3‑point shooting sits at 35.8%, and he averages 1.1 blocks per 36 minutes. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has publicly praised Thybulle’s “lateral quickness and basketball IQ,” suggesting he could fill a niche opposite RJ Barrett in a defensive scheme that emphasizes switchability.

Defensive Metrics Comparison

| Metric | Thybulle (2025‑26) | Knicks Bench Avg. | Recommendation | |--------|-------------------|-------------------|----------------| | Defensive Rating (per 100) | 106.3 | 108.7 | Favorable for rotation | | Steal Rate (%) | 2.1 | 1.6 | Add depth | | Opponent FG% When Guarded | 41.2% | 44.5% | Deploy in pick‑and‑roll defense |

Knicks Two‑Way Contracts and Roster Flexibility

The two‑way contract signed by Dalton Knecht allows the Knicks to retain his NBA rights while he splits time with the G‑League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. Under the NBA’s 2026 collective bargaining agreement, two‑way players can appear in up to 50 regular‑season games, and their salaries count against the team’s salary cap at a reduced rate. By converting a standard 10‑day contract into a two‑way deal, the Knicks cleared a spot on their 15‑man roster, creating an opening for a player like Thybulle who can sign a minimum‑guarantee contract.

Dalton Knecht Background and Immediate Impact

Knecht, the 24th overall pick in 2022, struggled to find minutes in Los Angeles, averaging 2.1 points in 12 games before being waived in early October. His two‑way deal includes a $475,000 NBA salary and a $75,000 G‑League stipend. Knicks scouting reports note his ability to defend multiple positions and his improving three‑point shot (38.4% last season). While Knecht is unlikely to see significant minutes this season, his presence provides depth for practice and a contingency if injuries arise.

Timeline of Recent Knicks Moves

Date	Event
Oct 22	Knicks waive forward Isaiah Todd to open roster slot
Oct 23	Reports surface that Thybulle is in talks with New York front office
Oct 24 (Tue)	Dalton Knecht signs two‑way contract; Knicks announce roster flexibility
Oct 25	Thybulle expected to attend first full‑team practice

Future Outlook and Official Statements

Knicks President of Basketball Operations Leon Rose said in a press briefing, “We are always looking for players who can defend at a high level and contribute on the floor without needing a high usage rate. Matisse fits that profile, and the Knecht signing simply gives us the flexibility to bring him in.” Thybulle’s agent, Rich Paul, confirmed that a “standard minimum contract is on the table, contingent on preseason performance.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Matisse Thybulle make the Knicks’ regular‑season roster?

Yes, if he demonstrates the defensive versatility and three‑point consistency shown in preseason, the Knicks are expected to award him a minimum‑guarantee contract.

How does Dalton Knecht’s two‑way deal affect the Knicks’ salary cap?

Knecht’s two‑way salary counts at a reduced cap figure, freeing approximately $4.2 million of cap space for a standard contract like Thybulle’s.

What role could Thybulle play alongside RJ Barrett?

Thybulle would likely serve as a perimeter defender and secondary ball‑handler, allowing Barrett to focus on scoring and playmaking in the Knicks’ two‑guard rotation.