CLEVELAND — Over the course of his nine-year NBA career, Tristan Thompson has earned a reputation as many things.
A 3-point shooter, however, is not one of them.
And yet, in the Cleveland Cavaliers' home opener against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, the 6-foot-9 center displayed some previously un-known range, sinking a 3-point shot in the first quarter of action.
Perhaps fittingly, Thompson's 3-point shot came after he chased down an offensive rebound after a Jordan Clarkson layup was blocked with 4:40 remaining in the first quarter. But with Clarkson's attempt having failed to hit the rim, the Texas product had no choice but to heave a 3-point attempt -- something he had only previously done nine times in his NBA career.
But as it turned out, the 10th time was the charm.
Despite Thompson's success -- and surprisingly impressive form -- don't expect the 3-point shot to become a regular part of his repertoire moving forward. Asked prior to the start of the season if he felt pressure to expand his game as he entered the final season of his contract with the Cavs, the former No. 4 overall pick made it clear that he plans on sticking with what he knows best.
"I'm a made man," Thompson said. "At the end of the day, when the going gets tough, you need a guy that does what I do. That's why there's very few of us."
