The first domino in the NBA buyout market is about to fall and the news was broken by Indiana Pacers head coach, Rick Carlisle. Following the team’s 113-108 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night, Carlisle announced that veteran center Tristan Thompson will not be with the team any longer.
He was acquired from the Sacramento Kings, along with Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield, in the deal that sent Domantas Sabonis, Justin Holiday, Jeremy Lamb and a second-round pick to the Kings. Thompson is parting in style, as he had a great game, scoring 17 points with six rebounds and one block to help the Pacers get a victory.
Now, he will be moving a little more north as Thompson will be joining the Chicago Bulls, according to Carlisle. Thompson will be bought out of his contract with the Pacers and join Chicago once he clears waivers.
This is a move that will impact numerous other players and teams around the league. It was widely anticipated that Thompson would be joining his old teammate, LeBron James, with the Los Angeles Lakers should he secure a buyout. Alas, that is not the case.
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With Thompson off the board, attention will turn to other potential big men that could hit the buyout market in the coming days and weeks. Robin Lopez of the Orlando Magic, Paul Millsap of the Philadelphia 76ers, Derrick Favors of the Oklahoma City Thunder and DeAndre Jordan of the Los Angeles Lakers could all be bought out sooner than later.
Where could those players land now that Thompson is heading to the Bulls? Let’s take a look at some top remaining destinations.
