The Los Angeles Lakers could use another big man with the future of Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee up in the air. A plausible target could be Tristan Thompson of the Cleveland Cavaliers. He and LeBron James have been known to be close and that was easily seen in a recent Twitter exchange.
The two NBA players exchange pleasantries recently, both reminiscing about the good old days. Though that could mean nothing with two friends just trying to keep in touch, some outlets have now given it a deeper meaning. At the top of it all, most are now pondering the possibility of seeing the Canadian head to Hollywood.
Thompson is coming off a done deal with the Cavs. He wrapped up his five-year deal worth $82 million and will be one of the curious targets this free agency. Joining the Lakers could make sense although the purple and gold’s limited budget somehow raises some points.
My big brother 4L, missed you too broski. Miss those times at dinner going back and forth https://t.co/PE9jv3C5RC — Tristan Thompson (@RealTristan13) October 30, 2020
The amount of money that the Lakers can offer is important. Thompson had previously said that he would not agree to any discounts and will only consider offers not lower than that he previously had.
But then again, most know how James could flip the script. With the Lakers looking to make it back-to-back NBA titles, such could pique the interest of Thompson into agreeing to a reasonable deal to win more titles. James and Thompson were teammates in Cleveland when the Cavs won the NBA title in 2016.
That was the only NBA title of Thompson and winning more will be something he may consider. The Lakers may have difficulty offering him something better than his previous deal. Anthony Davis is expected to re-sign with the Lakers, yet another factor why the Lakers have yet to know how much would be left for the 2020-21 season.
Thompson also has the numbers to back his talent. Last season, the Canadian native played in 57 games averaging 12 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists in 30 minutes of action per Spotrac.
Those are key numbers the Lakers could use moving forward. Most know how they were looking for player support to James and Davis, particularly up front. Thompson is a younger and better option for the Lakers over Howard or McGee. But the problem right now is making sure the money involved fits.
