LeBron says he won't address Thompson's contract situation

At least publicly, LeBron James is not going to pressure the Cleveland Cavaliers regarding the contract status of restricted free-agent teammate Tristan Thompson, the superstar said Tuesday.

"I've already addressed it," James told reporters on Day 2 of training camp for the Cavs. "Play my clips from (Monday's team media day). I've already addressed it. I probably won't address it again too much more. Like I said, I'm optimistic that both sides will get something done and he'll be here sooner than later."

Thompson has been a no-show as the Cavaliers gather in suburban Cleveland this week. On Monday, a report emerged that the team is willing to increase the money on a five-year offer - initially reported this summer at $80 million - but not close to the max $94-million contract Thompson is believed to be seeking.

A leverage point for the 24-year-old Canadian power forward has been the possibility of signing a one-year qualifying offer at just under $7 million, then becoming an unrestricted free agent next summer - something his agent, Rich Paul, has said would result in the end of his tenure with the Cavs. However, the deadline for accepting qualifying offers is Thursday.

James, who also has Paul as an agent, was outspoken this summer about the team's need to get Thompson back on board. The Cavaliers also now face a situation with shooting guard Iman Shumpert out at least three months, along with uncertain statuses for Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving.

Still, head coach David Blatt says it's too early in camp to miss Thompson.

"Obviously, we hope to see him as soon as possible," Blatt said. "But, as I know Tristan, he's maintaining great conditioning and he hopefully will be with us as soon as possible."