Tristan Thompson could be odd man out in Cavs center rotation

Ante Zizic

Promising Croatian big man Ante Zizic could also take minutes from Thompson. He appeared in only 32 games this year but was consistent whenever he saw the floor. He shot an impressive 73.1% from the field in his rookie season.

While always quietly intriguing, Zizic gained some publicity after his two recent Summer League performances. He dominated in these games (20.5 ppg, 12.5 rpg) and remained reliable, shooting 63%.

The sophomore came into summer with a more developed skill set and looked confident bumping around down low for points. He is arguably the Cavs’ second-best. post option on offense, and at nearly seven feet, he matches up better against opposing big men than the smaller Thompson and Nance.

Still, there’s no guarantee that his production in Summer League translates to the NBA when playing against the league’s best centers.

Would he be worth more attention in the offense than just the occasional below the rim finish or expiring shot clock hook-shot like Thompson? It’s yet to be seen.

It’s also very unlikely that Zizic rebounds better than Thompson next season, particularly on the offensive end. Thompson is most effective in the starting lineup to provide extra possessions to a Cavs team that will have their power forward running offense from the elbow and perimeter.