Hometown heroes are always welcome, even if they leave. Cleveland is especially receptive to this policy. They did so when LeBron James returned from his contentious move to the Miami Heat. They made place briefly for Kevin Love. Now, they are showing the same inclusion to another member of the prestigious 2016 championship roster, even if it means forgiving grave mistakes. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the Cavs are recalling Tristan Thompson for another season on a one-year deal.

This would be his eleventh season with the franchise. He will most likely sign on a league minimum, which would be close to $3.3 million. This comes despite the bruising center facing a 25-game suspension for violating the league’s anti-drug policy last season. During the time, the Cavaliers put out a statement expressing their support for the league. However, they have always been fond of the rebounding menace, especially the higher-ups.

When signing him last season, the team president Koby Altman said, “Tristan embodies every trait we want as part of our team culture, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring his experience and character back into our franchise”

Thompson returned from his suspension in March and said he took accountability for his actions in front of the entire team. It seems his initiative won over the hearts of his teammates and the franchise to abide in him once again.

https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1832079366257275130

Understandably, Tristan isn’t on the same pedestal as he was before. His role is more to be a backup piece behind the Cavs’ center rotation and also take on a leadership role in the camp. Last season, he participated in 49 games, averaging 3.3 points and 3.6 rebounds in just above 11 minutes a game.

While the Cavs were the quickest to benefit from Thompson’s availability, another big gun in the East was predicted to be looking at him.

New York Knicks lose another viable center in Tristan Thompson

The Knicks have gone through a rollercoaster free agency. Jalen Brunson, the team’s anchor, took a ludicrous pay cut to ensure the team sticks together with the introduction of his Villanova mater Mikel Bridges. However, the money saved was also meant to be put into signing a center. Notably, Isaiah Hartenstein had a good season with the Knicks last year, averaging a career-high 8.3 rebounds per game. His proficiency on the offensive glass led to several big plays for the Big Apple.

It was a trait the OKC saw and snatched him before the Knicks could juggle between decisions. In his absence, a depth option such as Tristan Thompson would have been an ideal piece of the puzzle for the East Giants. Moreover, they wouldn’t have to break the bank to secure his services. But now, not only have they lost an affordable option, but the center market has almost dried down, and the Knicks are lacking depth at the five with Mitchell Robinson and Jericho Sims, the only experienced options at their disposal.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.