Tristan Thompson Officially Signs Bulls Contract After Release from Pacers

The Chicago Bulls have signed a veteran center. The team released forward Alfonzo McKinnie.

Thompson was recently let go by the Pacers.

The Athletic's Shams Charania reported earlier this week that the Pacers would waive Thompson and he would sign with the Bulls.

Thompson was acquired by the Pacers at the trade deadline. The deal brought two other people to Indiana. In return, the Pacers gave up Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday, and a second-round pick in the 2023 draft.

Thompson spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played for the Boston Celtics in the 2020-21 season, where he averaged 7.6 points, 8.1 rebound and 1.2 assists in 54 games.

The Celtics traded Thompson to the Kings as part of a three-team deal. In 30 games with the Kings, he averaged 6.2 points and 5.4 rebound.

Adding Thompson to the mix in Chicago gives the team some added depth. He will likely play behind the starting center and could also play as a power forward.

The Bulls are tied for first place in the Eastern Conference with a 38-21 record. They are competing with the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Milwaukee Bucks for the top spot in the East.