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Tristan Thompson set to return for Cleveland Cavaliers in reserve role

It'll be his first game in over a month.
<p>C.J. Watson #32 and Jodie Meeks #20 of the Orlando Magic battle Tristan Thompson #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers for a rebound during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on April 4, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. </p>

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio (AP) — Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson could play for the first time since Nov. 1 on Tuesday against Atlanta.

Thompson has been sidelined with a strained left calf. The team initially said Thompson would be out for up to four weeks, but he said Monday that timeline was inaccurate and that his injury was more serious. Thompson did not divulge any other details about the injury.

Coach Tyronn Lue says Thompson will not start when he returns, meaning Kevin Love will remain at center. Thompson says he's fine with a reserve role and made it clear he's willing to do whatever Lue needs.

The Cavaliers have won 14 of 15 and their defense has improved dramatically over the past month.

Thompson says he'll have the same mindset on the floor as always and "just be myself. Being myself has worked out pretty well for me."

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