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2011 NBA Draft: Cleveland Cavs Take Tristan Thompson With the Fourth Overall Pick

**UPDATE**

The Cavaliers are keeping Thompson, and some feel that could mean the end for J.J. Hickson. The Cavs selected a really nice young duo with their first two picks, and have begun to rebuild the core of their team that has seemingly disappeared since LeBron ditched them during "the decision." Thompson should be the Cavs' starting three next year, whenever that begins.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers continued their rebuilding process by selecting Texas forward Tristan Thompson. The Big 12 Freshman of the year was definitely a pick out of left field, but he’s a great athlete with a long wingspan who is a great offensive rebounder.

Thompson is a 20 year old from Ontario, Canada, and the Cavs selected him over Lithuanian big man Jonas Valanciunas, who was scheduled to play in Europe for at least one more year.

There are rumors that the Cavs could be trading this pick, but for now, Cleveland made the freshman phenom the highest drafted Canadian player of all time.

Again, there are reports that this pick could be heading to Detroit or Charlotte, but that is likely depending on who falls to them at those respective slots. It’s possible the Cavs still had eyes for Jonas Valanciunas. Stay tuned.

Photographs by spatulated, Triple Tri, and chrischappelear used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.