Cavs Veteran Vaults Into Top Five In Franchise History Books
The Cleveland Cavaliers' choice to go to Tristan Thompson on Tuesday night late against Joel Embiid paid dividends, but it also happened in the same game that "T-Top" continued his climb in franchise history.
With a block on Paul Reed early in the second quarter, Thompson passed Cavs longtime rim-protector Jim Chones for fifth on the franchise's all-time blocks list. The 32-year-old registered his 451st rejection on that play to leap Chones' 450.
Thompson returned to the team for his second stint this offseason after three years away from the wine-and-gold. His impact, even in spurts, has been vital to Cleveland in certain matchups. J.B. Bickerstaff isn't afraid to look his way when the Cavs need a boost of energy and toughness.
Nov 21, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (12) reacts to a victory against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center.
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
It's exactly the kind of spark and level of play Thompson provided to the team during his first go-round, particularly noticeable when LeBron James came back to town alongside a new face in Kevin Love. With the way Thompson could defend guards and big men, the Cavs often had a dependable presence in the paint and even around the perimeter on switches.
Double T may be a little older these days, but obviously there is plenty of tread left on the tires in that respect. Cleveland is benefiting from his presence on the glass, hustle inside and leadership off the floor.
Thompson's chances of getting anywhere past that fifth spot would require a whole lot of swats and many more seasons of play, as LeBron currently holds the fourth-most blocks in the organization overall with 695.
