Canadian forward Tristan Thompson is expected to test the open market next summer if a long-term deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers can’t be reached, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange reports.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the 24-year-old is believed to be looking for a five-year contract worth around $94 million after reportedly turning down an $80-million deal in July. Thompson is currently a restricted free agent after being extended a qualifying offer on June 30, giving the Cavaliers the right to match an offer sheet from another team.
Thompson averaged 8.5 points and 8 rebounds in 26 minutes coming off the bench for the Cavs during the regular season. He averaged 9.6 points and 10.7 rebounds as a starter during a breakout playoff performance in Cleveland’s run to the NBA Final.
With his contract status unsettled, The Toronto native isn’t expected to suit up for Canada at the FIBA Americas Championship that begins Aug. 31 in Mexico City, Mexico.