How Well Do the Indiana Pacers Matchup With the Cleveland Cavaliers?

Tristan Thompson vs Myles Turner

Tristan Thompson — he of the 5 year, 82 million dollar contract — rebounds the hell out of the ball. He’s a good defender, can hang with quicker players in space a bit, and probably won’t be moved too much in the post. He’s short for a center (listed at 6’9), but very stout.

Myles Turner has a few inches on him, but may struggle significantly with Thompson’s strength and rebounding prowess.

However, Myles has a handful of advantages in this matchup. Thompson has little to no shooting range, which allows Turner to patrol and protect the paint without losing track of his man. Thompson will also struggle to get all the way out in coverage. If Turner is willing (and has the green light) to fire away from downtown, Thompson might struggle quite a bit on defense.

The arrow here goes slightly to Myles Turner, but Thompson earned that huge contract in the playoffs. It’s on Myles to accept the responsibility of keeping him off the offensive glass, and that will be a full time job.