The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as the top team in the NBA during the early stages of the season, yet they are not without their challenges. One prominent issue highlighted by Josh Cornelissen from King James Gospel is the lack of depth at the center position. The Cavaliers currently rely on three centers: Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Tristan Thompson. However, concerns have been raised regarding Thompson's effectiveness, suggesting he should no longer be a regular contributor on the court.
Cornelissen points out that while the Cavaliers are well-rounded at every position, the center spot remains a vulnerability. With Thompson averaging only 2.5 points and 2.7 rebounds over 12 games this season, his performance has diminished significantly, making him less viable for a contending team. Once a pivotal player in the Cavaliers' championship run in 2016, Thompson's recent struggles—particularly his inability to stretch the floor and declining defensive capabilities—have rendered him largely unplayable in critical matchups.
Despite these concerns, the Cavaliers have time to rectify this issue before the trade deadline in February. While Thompson is valued for his leadership and locker room presence, the risk of relying on him in case of injuries to Allen or Mobley could jeopardize their championship aspirations. Addressing this gap in their roster will be crucial for maintaining their status as a top contender.
