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Cavs expected to start Tristan Thompson in Game 2 (The Associated Press)

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio (AP) -- Cavaliers forward Tristan Thompson is expected to start Game 2 against Chicago, a move that puts LeBron James back at his customary small forward position.

Thompson started 15 games during the regular season, but 6-foot-8 big man has been most effective coming off the bench with Cleveland's second unit.

Thompson had eight rebounds in 37 minutes in the first game. The Cavs are missing starters Kevin Love and J.R. Smith, facing the prospect of losing two games at home to start the series.

Thompson's addition to the starting lineup allows James to get out on the perimeter, where he is more dangerous offensively.