By JAMES McKNIGHT, Special Contributor

INDEPENDENCE – The Cleveland Cavaliers are preparing to take on the Golden State Warriors at the Q tonight (Wednesday, 12/5/18).

With double-doubles in seven of his last eight games, forward/center Tristan Thompson was at the center of media buzz at the team’s shoot around earlier in the day. Often contentious in four consecutive matchups into the finals – with or without Lebron James – it’s clear he considers Golden State a rival.

One thing you’ll hear from Thompson: he is embracing the leadership role and not taking any bait when it comes to a chance to trash talk the Warriors – or dig up his history with Draymond Green.

James McKnight is a special contributor, from his mom’s house.