Inside The Nets

Cam Thomas Feels He's More Than Just A Bucket-Getter

Thomas has continued to be the top scorer for the Nets, but he’s more than just a scorer.

Peter Sunjic

© John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
In this story:

After seven games in the 2023/24 season, Cameron Thomas has been nothing short of superb. He has averaged 28.7 points per game which includes a 45-point outburst in a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Thomas has secured the role of being the go-to guy on offense and the reputation of being a “bucket-getter.”

While Cameron Thomas has a knack for scoring, the LSU guard is determined not to be pigeonholed as a one-dimensional scorer; this season, he's showcased impressive defensive skills and playmaking abilities, proving he possesses a more well-rounded skill set.

“It’s part of it. I feel like I do a lot more stuff, but obviously, the buckets part of it kind of overtakes everything because people just see the scoring and don’t try to look at the other parts of my game,” Thomas said to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.

Thomas has improved every facet of his game

Ever since he was a prospect, Thomas was known as a scorer and he has never removed that part of his game. However, it needs to be said that he has continued to evolve his playstyle as he matured. 

Entering his third year in the NBA, Cam Thomas has transformed into a formidable challenge for opponents, refining every aspect of his game. Beyond his high-level scoring, Thomas has enhanced his defensive prowess, excelling in on-ball defense and demonstrating solid screen navigation, a noteworthy feat for a smaller guard.

Even his passing has improved and while he’s not an elite playmaker, he knows when to kick out to the open man or hit the player at the dunker’s spot. He has evolved into a rock-solid player who can be relied upon to be a star in this league.

Thomas has earned Vaughn’s trust

In the 2022/23 season, Thomas had a stellar run when he scored 40+ points in three consecutive games. While the predominant discussion in February 2023 revolved around his defensive struggles, it's no longer the case. Thomas has showcased a marked improvement in his defensive abilities, earning him a spot in the starting lineup under the guidance of head coach Jacque Vaughn.

Even his teammate Mikal Bridges has shown him love and branded him as the team’s best scorer. That coming from the player who was expected to be the team’s star player holds plenty of weight regarding what Cam is to the Nets.

As Thomas keeps improving, he will still maintain the tag of being a bucket-getter but his overall game has to be respected as he’s putting on magnificent performances almost every game at this point.

Despite the Nets' loss, Cam Thomas turned heads during the season opener in Brooklyn

Published
Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

Home/News