Links to the Present: February 29, 2012

2012-02-29 Off By Colin McGowan

“The last time the Cavaliers and Knicks met on Jan. 25, Kyrie Irving had yet to hit a game-winning shot and Jeremy Lin never got off the bench in Cleveland’s 91-81 win at The Q. The reputations of both point guards have been dramatically enhanced since that night. Irving and Lin face each other Wednesday at Madison Square Garden in a big game for the Cavaliers, who are trying to remain within reach of the final two Eastern Conference playoff spots. The Cavaliers (13-19) enter off a disappointing 86-83 loss to the Celtics in which Irving scored 24 points, but couldn’t make the big plays in the waning minutes.” [Tom Reed]

“Tristan Thompson: While many people are super high on young Tigger so far, my optimism is lower than most. I’m sure that he’ll be a productive player for quite a long time but he’s 3-4 years away from being a true threat in every single game. Few players in the league need more polishing up of their offensive game but Thompson is someone who each season I am confident will keep sneaking up this list. But for now, he’s just not there quite yet.” [John of FTS Ranks the Cavalier Roster]

“How many long-term answers are there on the Cavs’ roster? The two 2011 draft picks, G Kyrie Irving and F-C Tristan Thompson, are keepers. G-F Alonzo Gee has barged his way into the conversation with his recent play. He has averaged 13.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals in his past 13 games. Thompson, called a walking double-double by coach Byron Scott, is averaging 10 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in his last five games. C Anderson Varejao, out another month with a fractured right wrist, is also a building block.” [CBS Sports]

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