Cleveland Oh- The Cavs have brought back Tristan Thompson. The Texas big man who the Cavs drafted with the fourth pick in the 2011 draft. Thompson played with the Cavs his first nine seasons before stops in Boston, Sacramento, Indiana, Chicago, and Los Angeles Lakers. Thompson was a part of the team in 2016 when the Cavs won the NBA Championship and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to a team that needs depth and toughness.
Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman had this to say on Tuesday regarding the signing:
“Tristan embodies every trait we want as part of our team culture, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring his experience and character back into our franchise,” said Altman. “His impact both on and off the court is immeasurable, and his history with our team adds a layer of familiarity, leadership and physicality that will undoubtedly make a positive impact with our younger players. An integral part of our four consecutive NBA Finals trips and an NBA Championship in 2016, Tristan represented the organization with the utmost charm and professionalism during his nine seasons in Northeast Ohio. We are thrilled to reunite with Tristan and welcome him and his family back to the Cavaliers family.”
He may not be the player he was, but the knowledge and experience he will bring to this team, what he will be able to teach Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, will be invaluable. Thompson has appeared in 94 playoff games. He has averages of 9.0 points and 8.4 rebounds in 730 games. This one-year deal should benefit the Cavs for longer than the actual contract. The veteran will be a voice in the locker room and should be able to provide another voice outside of the coaches.
I like the move. I think the Cavs are building a team along with the core, that can provide toughness, and versatility. Between the signings this offseason to address the shooting, bringing in Max Strus, and George Niang, the Cavs now have addressed a toughness issue that should help the younger players. This year is going to be fun! After all, a piece of the championship team is back. And maybe, just maybe, we could see a deep run in this year’s postseason.
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