Tristan Thompson Developing Into A Solid Post Presence for Cleveland Cavaliers

Back in 2011 when the Cleveland Cavaliers decided to select Tristan Thompson fourth overall in the NBA Draft, many thought they were reaching much too high for the freshman power forward out of Texas. Looking back on the draft and Thompson’s progress, the Cavaliers apparently made the right decision.

The Cavaliers opted to pair Thompson with fellow 2011 draftee Kyrie Irving to give them an inside-outside duo to build around in the wake of the LeBron James years. Irving held up his part of the equation early on, eventually winning the Rookie of the Year award for his stellar play.

Thompson on the other hand needed longer to develop and was brought along slowly, playing 23.7 minutes a night and starting only 25 games as a rookie, all coming after the all-star break. Thompson went on to finish his rookie year with averages of 8.2 points and 6.5 rebounds, decent production but not quite NBA starting power forward standards.

This season, Thompson was in the starting lineup every game and responded to the promotion. Thompson nearly averaged a double-double on the year, contributing 11.7 points per game, 9.4 rebounds and even finished second in the league in total offensive rebounds (306). The 6’8″ athletic big man also finished with an impressive 31 double doubles on the season.

Thompson appears poised to take on an even larger role for the Cavaliers next year, especially under new coach Mike Brown. Thompson’s ability to hit the offensive glass and finish above the rim will be a key factor for Cleveland next season, and if he can use his athleticism on the defensive end he could see big minutes at the power forward position.