Trail Blazers fans have reason to be optimistic as Matisse Thybulle and Kris Murray returned to full practice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Interim head coach Tiago Splitter noted the intensity of these sessions, hinting at a crucial period for the team as they prepare for Friday’s matchup against Denver.
Thybulle, a defensive stalwart with two All-Defensive selections under his belt, has faced a tough couple of seasons due to injuries. Limited to just 15 games in the 2024/25 season because of knee and ankle issues, he’s only seen action in four games this season, last playing on October 29.
After undergoing thumb surgery on October 31, which kept him out for several weeks, Thybulle has been dealing with right knee tendinopathy. Despite earlier speculation about a potential buyout, his return to health suggests he’ll remain a key figure in Portland’s plans.
Meanwhile, Kris Murray, in his third year, has been sidelined with a lumbar strain, missing the last 19 games. His absence has been felt since his last appearance on January 5.
With Sidy Cissoko having reached his 50-game limit and Caleb Love nearing his own cap with five games left, the Blazers have been relying on these two-way players. However, the potential return of Thybulle and Murray alleviates any immediate pressure to promote them, as noted by Sean Highkin of The Rose Garden Report.
While the roster is slowly getting back to full strength, starting shooting guard Shaedon Sharpe remains out with a left calf strain. As the team’s second-leading scorer, his absence since February 6 has been significant. Splitter confirmed that Sharpe didn’t practice and his return isn’t expected soon, leaving the Blazers to navigate their upcoming games without him.
As Portland gears up for the second half of the season, the return of Thybulle and Murray could provide the spark they need, even as they await Sharpe’s recovery.