Tristan Thompson to play in Game 4, George Hill remains questionable

After only appearing in only two garbage time minutes so far against the Pacers, Tristan Thompson is going to get his chance to make an impact on the series in Sunday’s Game 4.

At shootaround Sunday morning, Cavs coach Tyronn Lue said that Thompson will see playing time. although he did not say how much or in what context.

“I can trust him,” Lue said. “I think Tristan can also get us extra possessions offensive rebounding. He brings toughness and that’s been a problem last couple games. I think he brings toughness, rebounding, defense.”

If Thompson replaces someone in the rotation, the likeliest candidates would be Larry Nance Jr. and Jeff Green. Nance Jr. hasn’t made much of an impact off the bench so far, while Green has gone from being a starter to a fringe rotation player in three playoff games.

Lue also said that George Hill is still listed as questionable as he deals with back spasms. He will undergo treatment all day Sunday. The good news: Hill’s MRI revealed no structural damage.

If Hill cannot play, Jose Calderon will start in his place.

I don’t want LeBron to have to do everything,” Lue said. “Have to handle the ball and make the plays. It will be a stretch where LeBron will be playing the point, we know that for sure, but not to start the game.”