The Cleveland Cavaliers are bringing back veteran center Tristan Thompson for the upcoming season on a one-year deal. Thompson, originally drafted by Cleveland as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, was the starting center when the team won the 2016 championship against the 73-9 Golden State Warriors.
Now 33 years old, Thompson returned to Cleveland last season on a one-year contract, playing 49 games and averaging 3.3 points and 3.6 rebounds in 11.2 minutes per game. However, he was suspended for 25 games after violating the NBA’s drug policy in January.
This signing follows other key moves by the Cavaliers this offseason, including the re-signings of Evan Mobley, Donovan Mitchell, and Jarrett Allen. Cleveland has made the playoffs for two consecutive years, defeating the Orlando Magic in the first round last postseason before losing to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
According to Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, the Cavaliers were looking for an affordable veteran player to fill an end-of-bench role, making Thompson a suitable choice. Although he’s no longer the player he once was, his leadership and championship experience remain valuable to the team.
Thompson will primarily serve as backup to frontcourt players like Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, Dean Wade, and Georges Niang, and his playing time will likely depend on injuries to the starters.
