6 moves the Cleveland Cavaliers must make this offseason to beat the Warriors in 2018

Trade TT

It’s hard to even entertain the idea of trading Tristan Thompson, but the Cavs have little to no flexibility in signing free agents, so they’re going to have to move some money.

The Cavs’ mindset next season will be on one thing: Defeating the Warriors, and based off how Thompson’s performed in the Finals, he’s become expendable.

Thompson averaged 9.2 rebounds (3.7 offensive) during the regular season, but has was kept quiet by Zaza Pachulia in the championship round. He’s was averaged 3.7 rebounds during the Cavs first three Finals’ losses. Thompson was better in games four and five, grabbing 10 and eight rebounds, respectively.

But in those Finals losses, the Cavs showed that they may not be behind the Warriors as much as some might think. By freeing up Thompson’s salary, the Cavs could close the gap by hopefully find someone who can score a little and defend, while finding a cheaper rebounder.

After an offseason that witnessed heavily reported on rumors involving Thompson’s contract, Tristan finally signed a five-year, $82 million deal just before the season. He’s making $15 million this season to do one thing: Provide second-chance opportunities against the Warriors, and for 3/5 of the Finals, he was a ghost.

In the next three years, Thompson will make $16.4 million, $17.4 million and $18.5 million respectively. His contract gives the Cavs some flexibility to pursue a trade.

However, if Cleveland does find a partner, Cleveland’s going to have to get some size from somewhere, as the only rebounding big left on the Cavs roster will be Kevin Love–if he’s not traded.