Talks between Cavaliers, Thompson continue

By CHRIS HAYNES

Northeast Ohio Media Group

Restricted free agent Tristan Thompson and the Cleveland Cavaliers were reportedly close to reaching an agreement on a multi-year deal on Wednesday.

But apparently that’s not the case. Negotiations with Thompson are still ongoing. On Wednesday, ESPN said the sides were near a five-year, approximately $80 million deal to remain with the organization.

The terms of Kevin Love’s and Iman Shumpert’s deals were leaked, but not that of Thompson. Now we know why. It wasn’t finished.

Northeast Ohio Media Group was told that there is not a vast gap in contract talks and there is no animosity. These minor hiccups are a part of the process and both sides are determined and confident that a deal will be struck.

Golden State’s Draymond Green, also a restricted free agent, agreed to terms on a five-year, $85 million salary after the reported Thompson deal surfaced. This could have been a ploy by Thompson’s camp to get a number out there. Now, Thompson’s camp can try to make the case that the double-double specialist should be paid more than Green.

The power forward turned down a four-year, $52 million extension in October.

During the postseason, LeBron James vouched for the Cavs’ workhorse, saying Thompson should be a Cavalier for life. They share the same agent in Rich Paul.