Tristan Thompson. Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Tristan Thompson's Cleveland homecoming is likely a farewell tour

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 9/11/23

Tristan Thompson is heading home. The 2016 NBA champion has signed a deal to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania. The report states that Thompson's addition will provide Cleveland with leadership and front-court depth.

Thompson spent the first nine years of his career in Ohio before leaving for the Boston Celtics. Since then, the veteran big man has bounced around the NBA. Thompson last suited up for the Los Angeles Lakers, making six postseason appearances.

C/F Tristan Thompson is finalizing a deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, CEO of Klutch Sports Rich Paul told @TheAthletic @Stadium. Thompson is set to return to Cleveland where he was part of 2016 NBA title, four Finals runs, now gives Cavs leadership and some frontcourt depth. pic.twitter.com/ayKEu3JOj1
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 11, 2023

Thompson is unlikely to make a big impact on the court. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley will continue to consume the majority of front-court minutes. Instead, the Cavaliers will likely be looking for him to comprise a leadership role within the locker room.

Cleveland's roster is full of young and exciting talent. Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell are on of the best backcourts in the NBA. Mobley and Allen provide height and offensive versatility. However, they lack all lack championship experience.

That's where Thompson comes in. The 32-year-old big man was the starting center for the Cavaliers team that won a championship in 2016. Thompson can pass on his wisdom. He can help keep the locker room grounded during the inevitable rough stretches that occur throughout an NBA season.

Likewise, he can stop the young roster from getting too high on themselves during the winning streaks that will undoubtedly take place.

A year or two with the team that originally drafted him is a fitting way for Thompson to bow out of his career. If he can help develop and nurture the next Cavaliers team to contend for and potentially win a championship, then everything would have come full circle for the big man.

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