Cleveland Cavaliers veteran Tristan Thompson has paid tribute to the team’s leader.
Tristan Thompson decided in 2023 that returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers was a smart move. After spending brief stints with the Celtics, Kings, Lakers, Pacers and Bulls, the center went back to the team where he previously spent nine years.
Thompson spent nine years with the Cavaliers, winning the title in 2016 in LeBron James’ greatest championship victory, and he is aiming to help Cleveland do the same in 2025.
Speaking after wrapping up their successful regular season, Thompson spoke about the Cavs current leader.
Tristan Thompson spoke after the Cavaliers’ regular season concluded, with the team finishing in first place in the Eastern Conference.
Thompson, 34, is full of admiration for Donovan Mitchell, the team’s star player who is determined to lead them to post-season success.
He said of Mitchell: “He’s a good leader. He leads by example, but also his voice and speaking up.”
Thompson compared Mitchell to his former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate LeBron James, explaining that he sees similarities in their approach.
“In terms of by example, he’s a big routine guy, kind of like how ‘Bron was, in terms of getting his treatment, getting his lifts… he’s very regiment based.
“That’s what it takes to be among the greats in our league, to maintain it at that high level for a long period of time, and to continue to maintain at that level for the years to come. It takes that kind of dedication. So it’s a lot of ‘Bron-esque.”
Thompson went on to cite trainers Mitchell and LeBron James have both worked with, that influences the current Cavs star’s dedication.
“He’s kind of been around similar people that have been in that been in those positions with ‘Bron, to a degree.”
Donovan Mitchell has been averaging 24 points per game this season, starting 71 out of 82 games as the Cavs logged a first place 64-18 finish.
Tristan Thompson played 43 minutes in the Cavaliers’ final game of the season, an unexpectedly competitive 2OT game against the Indiana Pacers.
Thompson recorded 20 rebounds during the game, showing he still has something to offer, despite just playing a bit-part back-up role for the team.
His experience will be vital for the Cavs in the post-season, but it will be Donovan Mitchell who eyes are focused on.
