NBA Rumors: Tristan Thompson Cavaliers Stint May Not Be Over, Sources Say

The Cleveland Cavaliers 2019-20 NBA season is officially over following the league's announcement to resume games in late July. Only 22 teams will be seeing action and the Cavs are unfortunately not included. Aside from Cleveland, other teams already on vacation include the Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets and the Golden State Warriors.

On that note, the teams no included in the resumption of play are now likely busy planning for next season. For the Cavs, one player they have to figure out is Tristan Thompson. The 28-year-old forward's contract officially expires this NBA season. In a previous post, the Canadian made it clear that he will not accept anything lower than his old contract. Considering his performance during the 2019-20 NBA wars he may have a point.

In 57 games, Thompson put up impressive numbers with the Cavs. He averaged 12.0 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists. It was easily his best season with Cleveland since joining the NBA in 2012. Initially, it appeared Thompson was on his way out. He was not too impressed with John Beilein at the helm in the early part of the season. But things just changed when JB Bickerstaff replacing the former Wolverines coach. Thompson was pleased with the new direction, commending the new Cavs coach for being able to read players.

Regardless, there is still no new deal on the table for Thompson. Some feel that he will explore the free-agent market, but unnamed sources told Chris Fedor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer on the "Wine and Gold Talk" podcast that there may still be a chance for the 6-foot-9 player to return.

“I think there’s also a sense that the Cavs recognize the value that Tristan Thompson brings,” Fedor said.

Aside from that, the Cavs have grown fond of Thompson and want him to remain as one of the key pieces of the franchise moving forward. That could have been sealed earlier, but COVID-19 complications stood in the way. Right now, it would not be surprising if the Cavs and Thompson's camp are already discussing a potential new deal.

Alongside Kevin Love and most-recent recruit Andre Drummond, there is no question the Cavs have a deadly frontline. Love has been the subject of trade rumors while Drummond holds a player option, something he could exercise or not. The Cavs run fell short and now it will be interesting who will stay and who will go. But adding the COVID-19 situation, it would not come as a surprise if the big men in Cleveland decide to stick it out for at least one more season.