Ryan Dunn’s elite wing defense could substitute for Matisse Thybule
Although Matisse Thybulle, 27, fits the Blazers' timeline, Portland should consider moving him, given his trade value around the league. He could make sense as a trade target for a team looking to add another defensive weapon to help contend. If Ryan Dunn is still available for the Blazers in the second round, he could make sense as a replacement for the two-time All-Defensive Second-Team wing.
Of the mentioned prospects, Dunn is the only player currently projected to go in the second round. Portland has two second-round picks, No. 34 (via Charlotte) and No. 40 (via Atlanta), which could be right around his range.
Dunn, a 21-year-old Sophomore out of Virginia, is one of the best defenders in the entire draft class and should have a long NBA career as a result. Defensively, he's everything teams covet as a versatile 6-foot-8 wing who can do a little bit of everything well, from on-ball perimeter defense to help side rim protection. However, Dunn may fall in the draft due to his age and lack of shooting. He shot a concerning 20 percent from three and 53.2 percent from the charity stripe this season.
Thybulle had a successful career with his niche as a defensive specialist and has found a way to stay on the court and not be a negative asset offensively. He has significantly improved as a shooter since entering the NBA and is now close to the league average. Hopefully, Dunn can emulate a similar formula in the league.