You're not paying his potential a max deal. He's not a foundational player for any franchise.
This entire ordeal is becoming strange. If Andy stays healthy, with LBJ, Love, Moz and Sasha, they Cavs can play without him. They obviously would rather have him, evidenced by the 5/80 offer for a rotational big man, but a MaX deal??
I'm sorry, he is a double double guy, but his offense will never be higher than slightly below average. His defense is good and rebounding is excellent. He can't protect the rim.
There's is simply no scenario where is current or potential reach a max deal.
It's also worth noting that there is NO public outcry for him; but rather people are beginning to say "fuck this guy".
Dan would pay him, but no way is it a max deal.
any player who signed a max 4 or 5 year deal this season is a sweet deal for the owners and those guys are underpaid for the majority length of their contract.
Tristan had a solid season. an impressive postseason that really bodes well for his future.
some people are worried if Tristan signs for big money the team will lose mozgov
some people would like to see Thompson traded for other potential assets because we have Love
some people are worried that av will be traded for tax purposes.
some people think Thompson is redundant so therefore expendable.
personally I think Mozgov is expendable long term and there a cheaper option already on the roster.
I also look over at the West and See OKC, Golden State, Clippers, the rejuvenated Spurs and Houston.
Those Matchups outside of Houston are alot harder without Thompson over the next 5 years.
There also some budding teams in the east where a quality small ball lineup who can play fast on both ends of the court will be needed.
I was fine either way with the Cavs either making a higher offer for tristan or letting him sign the QO.
One way or another the Cavs are gonna Cave. either by signing Thompson to a one year contract and risk losing him next season or upping their offer for a 5 year deal or the least likely scenario Portland coming in to save the day with a two year offer the Cavs can Match.
I didnt think it was unrealistic for TT to sign the qo and make more than 80 million of the next five season going that route.
Im not begrudging the Cavs for not forking over the money. nor does it bother me that TT held out. its his life his contract.