Cam Thomas can light up a scoreboard like Times Square on New Year’s Eve, no question about it. But while the 23-year-old has mastered the art of getting buckets, the million-dollar question in Brooklyn is...
Can he lead the show?
There is no disagreeing when someone says that Cam Thomas is elite at scoring. He’s been doing it since his high school days in Virginia, through Oak Hill, LSU, and now with the Nets. His 24.0 points per game in an injury-shortened season prove that when healthy, he can carry a scoring load with ease. The guy's a microwave; he can heat up quick and provide instant offense.
But being a number one option in the NBA is about more than just dropping buckets and averaging 25 plus on any given night. It’s about making others better, defending at a high level, and consistently elevating your team. And that’s where Thomas, at least for now, falls short.
His playmaking? Still developing. At just under 4 assists per game, he hasn’t yet shown that he can consistently orchestrate an offense or create opportunities beyond his own. And defense? Let’s just say there’s a reason most of his highlight reels cut to a commercial break when the other team has the ball.
The Nets shouldn't fall into the trap of mistaking a leading scorer for a franchise cornerstone. Don’t get it twisted; he is a great player with a lot of upside. But as of now, Cam should be viewed as nothing more than a great number two option. Think of him as the scoring wingman every contender needs. But if Brooklyn wants to build something meaningful, they’ll need to find their true number one elsewhere.
Enter the 2025 NBA Draft.
With a top-heavy class and the Nets firmly in reset mode, this is their chance to swing big. The mission? Land a franchise-altering talent who can be the engine, the leader, and the identity of the team. Pair that player with Cam’s scoring punch, and now you’re talking about something real.
Just because he isn't a number option, it doesn't mean he can't improve. Until Brooklyn finds their guy, they should keep letting Thomas cook within reason. Ride the hot hand, absolutely. Just don’t expect him to run the whole kitchen. He’s not the head chef. He’s the blowtorch, perfect for finishing touches, not full-course meals. And that’s perfectly fine.