Texas Basketball in the NBA: How are former Longhorns doing in 2018-19?

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 1: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers fights for a rebound against Tristan Thompson #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first half of the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on February 1, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Cavaliers defeated the Pacers 111-106 in overtime. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Tristan Thompson and Myles Turner

Tristan Thompson, C, Cleveland Cavaliers

23 G, 23 GS (30.4 MPG): 11.7 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 2.0 APG. .527/.000/.644

The departure of LeBron James has devastated the Cavaliers as they currently have the second worst record in the league, however, Tristan Thompson is playing very well. He has always been known as a top tier rebounder, but the 11.5 rebounds pre game he is averaging this year is two more than his previous season high.

On the defensive end Thompson has been solid in the post, ranking in the 73rd percentile in defensive points per possession. Thompson gets most of his points on the offensive glass, but has still be an effective P&R player.

The Cavs will struggle all season long but that does not mean Thompson has or will struggle.

Myles Turner, C, Indiana Pacers

22 G, 22 GS (27.2 MPG): 11.3 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.6 APG, 2.6 BPG. .486/.212/.741

Myles Turner inked a four-year, $72 million dollar extension with the Pacers in the off-season. He is in his third season as Indiana’s starting center. Turner is money from 15-feet and in. He has turned into a real threat off of the pick-and-pop. For whatever reason, Turner continues to struggle to rebound at the center position. He is averaging just six boards per game this season.

On the defensive end Turner has been very effective. He is a force in the paint, blocking 2.6 shots per game. Turner is also athletic enough to stay with smaller guards off of the pick-and-roll. According to Synergy, Turner ranks in the 76th percentile in P&R defense and in the 95th percentile in on-block defense. He has turned into one of the better defensive centers in the league.

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