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Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 keys to reaching the NBA Playoffs next season

By Tony Pesta

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 09: Collin Sexton #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers moves the ball up court against the Detroit Pistons in the first half of an NBA game at Little Caesars Arena on January 9, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Cleveland defeated Detroit 115-112 in OT. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 09: Collin Sexton #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers moves the ball up court against the Detroit Pistons in the first half of an NBA game at Little Caesars Arena on January 9, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Cleveland defeated Detroit 115-112 in OT. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /
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Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Cleveland Cavaliers (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

3. Resign Tristan Thompson

It’s not a secret that all of the players are rooting for Tristan Thompson to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The longest-tenured active NBA player, Thompson is one of the last remaining members of the 2016 championship team and a favorite among fans and his own teammates.

Thompson made a statement last season that he is capable of being much more than a scrappy rebounder. He took a huge leap on offense – averaging a career-high 12.0 points on 51.2 percent shooting from the floor. TT even expanded his range to the 3-point line, drilling 9-of-23 attempts. His control in the post was improved and he displayed a nice hook shot that became huge for the Cavaliers during rough offensive stretches.

Related Story. Cavaliers: 8 quality free agents to target. light

Above all else, Thompson acted as the Cavaliers’ leader throughout the season. He demanded energy out of everyone on the roster and led by example more often than not. Thompson fully embraced his role as the veteran and was one of the few keeping this team together when it got ugly.

Thompson led the team in total blocks and rebounds this season – often keeping plays alive with his energy on the offensive glass. His effort made him the league’s third-highest offensive rebounder.

The main thing holding TT back from rejoining the Cavs is the potential to earn more money elsewhere. Cleveland will only be able to offer Thompson the mid-level exception for roughly $9 million dollars. This nearly cuts his current salary in half and is likely less than what he can get on the open market. However, the financial impact of COVID-19 is yet to be seen and Thompson could elect to play one more season in Cleveland before signing a more lucrative deal somewhere else once things return to normal.

The mentality that Thompson brings to every game is something that became infectious to the Cavaliers’ young core throughout the season. There is no doubt that he can be a positive influence in the locker room and help the Cavs win games next season on their path to the playoffs.