Tristan Thompson is back in the saddle with the Cleveland Cavaliers
Thompson’s frame can shed a defender off the ball handler on a pick or dribble handoff, creating the opening for his teammate to hoist away or dive to the cup. He’ll be the most dangerous offensively shielding for DG and Spida because they usually beat the first defender and the second might stay with them if there’s no shot blocker behind them. This would leave TT rolling, waiting for the pass, and likely placing him in position to grab an offensive rebound if a teammate misses.
His strength should allow him to take advantage in the dunker spot, too, when Thompson’s man is overplaying a drive. If a mismatch is caught there, he should be looked to for the basket instantly.
Thompson at his best is an impactful player and a proven winner. Cleveland President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman said when signing Thompson that he “Embodies every trait we want as a part of our team culture…”
The Cleveland Cavaliers are a talented squad and have lots of expectations. Tristan Thompson is sure to be a difference-maker in 2023-2024 that helps the team maximize its full potential.