The Cleveland Cavaliers will have to find out how to replace 3.8 points a game after Tristan Thompson was suspended by the NBA.
Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson has been suspended for 25 games by the NBA, the league announced today in a press release.
According to the NBA, Thompson violated the terms of the league’s anti-drug program by testing positive for ibutamoren and SARM LGD-4033. Both drugs are on the list of prohibited substances in the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, under the “steroids and performance-enhancing drugs” section.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – DECEMBER 23: Tristan Thompson #12 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center on December 23, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Under the current CBA, a 25-game ban is the standard for a player who tests positive for a SPED.
On Monday, the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Orlando Magic and Thompson had four points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block while shooting 2/6 from the field in 21 minutes of playing time.
Now, the 2016 Champion won’t be eligible to return until the team plays a road game against the Houston Rockets on March 16th.
The 32-year-old is in his second stint with the Cavs. He’s appeared in 36 games this season and has averaged 12.4 minutes a night.
In his 13th NBA season after being selected with the fourth overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft, Thompson has also suited up with the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, and Chicago Bulls.
