Report: Tristan Thompson Will Leave Cavs If Forced to Take One-Year Deal
Tristan Thompson averaged 9.6 points and 10.8 rebounds during the Cleveland Cavaliers' post-season and he wants a max contract for it.
Agent Rich Paul, who also represents LeBron James, told ESPN that if Thompson is forced to accept a one-year contract, the 2015-16 season will be his last with the team.
Although Thompson's production doesn't warrant a max extension, re-signing the budding 24-year-old power forward may be the only option for the Cavs. The franchise and Thompson reportedly broke off talks last month — with Thompson seeking approximately $94 million over five years — and have been at an impasse since.
By accepting a one-year qualifying offer of $6.8 million, Thompson would become an unrestricted free agent next summer. The summer of 2016 is also expected to see a $20 million rise in the salary cap, possibly opening the door to the possibility of a long-term deal for Thompson.
Perhaps because Thompson is represented by the same agent as James, who has publicly stated he wants Thompson back, will help leverage a deal for the power forward.
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