The Cleveland Cavaliers basically had one goal this offseason: keep LeBron James happy. There were a number of items embedded in that endeavor, most of which revolved around re-signing Kevin Love and perhaps even more important, inking Tristan Thompson to a long-term deal. LeBron is a big fan of Thompson’s game, especially considering the way he stepped up in the playoffs after Love went down with a shoulder injury. The two also share an agent in Rich Paul.
But it’s already September, and the front office has yet to accomplish one of their main offseason goals. It’s unclear exactly what the holdup is, but the general consensus is that if the two sides can’t come to terms soon, Thompson might settle for a one-year qualifying offer, which would make him an unrestricted free agent next summer when the salary cap embarks on its stratospheric ascent.
The Cavs would be wise to try and avoid that scenario altogether, as multiple teams will likely be lining up to offer Thompson big money. According to Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops, there are apparently already a few teams preparing for that contingency.
While Toronto is possible for Tristan Thompson in '16, sources say Rich Paul has 3 teams waiting to offer the 24 yr old max $ if he's an UFA
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) September 8, 2015
It’s anybody’s guess which teams he’s referring to, but there have been strong indications that the Toronto Raptors would like to make a run at Thompson (who hails from Toronto) if or when he becomes available. Thompson and his agent have likely demanded a max contract from Cleveland, which would be at the heart of their current stalemate. But that’s not necessarily because they don’t believe he’s worth max money.
It has more to do with the fact that the Cavs are already quickly closing in on a $100 million payroll for next season. It’s a dangerous game to play, but getting him to agree to the one-year qualifying offer would buy them some time and give them an opportunity to clear some space in anticipation of the skyrocketing cap over the next couple of years.
It would also essentially be a wise financial decision on Thompson’s part, who as you’ll recall made a similar gamble last summer when he turned down the Cavs’ four-year, $52 million offer. But a lot can happen between now and next summer, and it would behoove both parties to come to an agreement now so they can secure their respective futures and turn their focus back to basketball.
(via Michael Scotto; h/t CBSSports. com)
