Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas has been out of action for nearly two weeks due to a hamstring injury. Initially, reports indicated he would be sidelined for three to four weeks. While this is still a possibility, Thomas recently shed some light on his recovery.
According to Thomas, via the New York Post’s Brian Lewis, Thomas is still in the “beginning stages” of his rehab process.
Neither the Nets nor injured Cam Thomas have offered any timetable for his return. But speaking publicly for the first time since hurting his hamstring, Thomas acknowledged he’s still in the beginning stages of the rehab process. “I’m just doing whatever the performance team has me doing. It’s still early,” Thomas said. “I’m just doing whatever they have me doing, just a little bit here and there. But it’s all right.”
Thomas has missed Brooklyn’s last five games. In those games, the Nets are 2-3. On the season, they are 10-13 and own the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Brooklyn Nets Star Provides Slightly Concerning Injury Update
Cam Thomas’ Season Before the Injury
In his fourth season in Brooklyn, Thomas is in the midst of a breakout campaign. Through 17 games, the 23-year-old is averaging 24.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. Additionally, he is shooting 46.1% from the field and 38.9% from the three-point line. Thomas has developed a lot as a player over the past few years and looks destined for a potential All-Star season in the future.
Many in the NBA circle are aware of Thomas’ talent and potential. However, he was still snubbed from ESPN’s Top 25 under 25 list. Thomas spoke about the snub, saying he does not “really care.”
“If anybody’s watching, they know,” said Thomas. “If you look at the numbers and what I do against everybody I play against, there’s no debate or discussion … I don’t really care about this as long as your peers know you’re one of the best players.”
Brooklyn Nets Seem Primed to Build Around Cam Thomas
For the past couple of seasons, rumors have floated suggesting the Nets could trade Thomas at some point. The Japanese native is a restricted free agent next offseason. With no extension on the table, this led to some believing the team could move on from Thomas and fully commit to a rebuild. However, this may not be a realistic option.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Nets owner Joe Tsai “is a fan of Thomas.” Furthermore, head coach Jordi Fernandez has praised Thomas and his scoring ability before.
While any Net is technically considered available, given the early rebuilding stage the franchise is embarking on, it’s worth noting league sources told HoopsHype owner Joe Tsai is a fan of Thomas. Coach Fernandez has also lauded his scoring “superpowers” in press conferences.
Regardless of their future plans, the Nets are in an interesting position. After trading Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks over the summer, many expected the Nets to finish as a bottom team in the NBA. However, as it currently stands, they are in the hunt for a postseason appearance. The season is still young, but it is time to consider the Nets a legitimate playoff contender this season.
