Evaluating the Viability of Thomas Bryant As Primary Backup Big for Cavs

As he heads into year two in Cleveland, let's talk about the big man.

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From the minute he first joined the Cavs, Thomas Bryant has brought incredible energy to the team. Following his NBA Finals run with the Pacers, he was coming from the best possible basketball environment.

Having been part of deep playoff runs with multiple teams, he is able to instill a lot of important values and lessons. The perfect replacement for Tristan Thompson as the veteran big. And of course, on the nights later in the season when he saw playing time, Bryant was able to make plays and put up strong production.

Here is the case for the 29-year-old to be the Cavs primary backup big man.

Experience and Floor Spacing

Thomas Bryant has been traded a few times, but has seemed to find himself in great situations. He was on the court for the Lakers when LeBron James broke the scoring record. He played in Washington with Dwight Howard. Bryant won a title with the Nuggets, and was part of the improbable Pacers NBA Finals run in 2025.

He joined Cleveland last year as an experienced veteran, not yet 30 years old. His stats haven’t been quite what they were in those D.C. days, but it’s clear that he’s well respected. A solid floor-spacing big man that can hit the 3PT, his toughness on the glass has proven vital for the Cavs. He may not have played much in the postseason, but his determination in the regular season was crucial.

Bryant averaged six points and three rebounds per game last year, his first with the team. It was almost a no-brainer to bring him back after the season concluded. He provides more value than Tristan Thompson did, while also being able to get on the floor and deliver. Just turning 29 this summer, he’s got a lot of quality basketball left in the tank.

Accountability and Backing It Up

Bryant has done well to hold guys accountable. He steps on the court and shows it rather than telling it, and that is what you want from the vet. He proved to be more than capable of handling regular rotation minutes. Another guy could still be brought in, but Bryant has the chance to be the primary backup.

Nae’Qwan Tomlin is a bit small to be the center, giving TB the first chance. Whether or not they try to acquire a wing versus another center with the last roster spot remains to be seen. Plus, Ernest Udeh. Jr is on a two-way deal and could potentially see the floor in situations of need. His rim protection in the Summer League was rather impressive.

Having Bryant on your team when you go to war every night is highly favorable. His production and skillset match what the team needs, so don’t be surprised to see him playing in the rotation on day one. He’s more than earned the right.