CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Impending restricted free agent Tyrus Thomas has made it clear: He wants to stay in Charlotte and sign a long-term deal with the Bobcats.
Thomas says he “definitely” wants to remain with the Bobcats after being acquired in a February trade from Chicago. General manager Rod Higgins said earlier this month it’s likely the Bobcats will offer him a one-year qualifying offer worth a little more than $6 million to make him a restricted free agent.
The 6-foot-10 Thomas averaged 10.1 points and 6.1 rebounds in 25 games with the Bobcats last season. He had 21 points and nine rebounds in a playoff game against Orlando.
Thomas spoke by phone Tuesday from Washington, where he was to receive a Jefferson Award for his community service in the Baton Rouge, La., area.