Cam Thomas highlights bright spots in Nets' loss to Mavericks

Despite another loss, rising star Thomas is focused on the positives for the Nets.

© Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports

Cameron Thomas was once again the bright spot for the Brooklyn Nets in a 120-125 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. This was his follow-up performance from his 36-point outburst in the season-opener defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Final from Dallas. pic.twitter.com/xL3vsFofka

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) October 28, 2023

Even if they lost in another close one, Cam is confident in his team. They have shown some positives in their two performances which they can be proud of and continue to build on in future games.

“Our pace was better, faster. We played a lot faster. We actually got a good amount of stops to force them into tough shots,” Thomas said in his post-game presser. “Obviously, Luka (Doncic) made some, Ky (Kyrie Irving) made some tough shots, but that’s all you can do. Just force them into tough shots and if they make it, they make it… So, it was a lot of positives in the game, I feel like.”

Thomas has emerged as the team’s best scorer

Across the first two games of the season, Thomas is averaging 33 points per game which is an absurd stat, considering he was not considered the star offensive player heading into the season. Originally planned as the primary option, Mikal Bridges' current struggles have allowed Cam to seamlessly step into the spotlight as the team's offensive focal point for now.

With every possession, Thomas aggressively seeks to score, showcasing a diverse range of shots. Whether from beyond the arc or driving into the paint for finishes, he's demonstrated remarkable versatility on that side of the ball. While there's a possibility of a cooling-off period, the LSU product has pled his case for a starting role to the head coach, Jacque Vaughn.

The rest of the team is playing well

Apart from Thomas, there have been many promising performances for the Nets so far this season. Ben Simmons looks like his old self with his willingness to be the primary playmaker and shouldering defensive responsibilities whether at the perimeter or in the paint. Spencer Dinwiddie remains a dependable scorer, excelling in both spot-up shooting and creating opportunities for himself.

The Nets have narrowly dropped two winnable games, but Thomas' emphasis on the positive aspects highlights the team's promising growth, which may soon lead to victories.

The Brooklyn Nets lose to the Dallas Mavericks due to Doncic’s 49-point outburst