Cam Thomas nears a return to Brooklyn Nets lineup

Cam Thomas said he should make a return in a few games.

© Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Thomas is one of the most vital players for the Brooklyn Nets. Unfortunately, he suffered his second ankle sprain this season, missing the past six games.

His absence has hampered the Nets, as his scoring would've been crucial in a stretch when fellow go-to guy Mikal Bridges is struggling to score. Thankfully, Cam is returning soon, boosting the Nets' hopes of making the Play-In Tournament.

"It's been good. Like I said before, it wasn't as serious. I was fine. I'm just rehabbing it, making sure I'm good enough to play. I feel I can play out there. It's been good, we'll see. Should be out there in a few games. When they say I can play, I'll play," Cam said to the media in a pre-game shootaround before the Pistons game.

Brooklyn needs Cam to return ASAP

The Nets won two massive games against Play-In rivals Atlanta Hawks last week, but they essentially undid their work by losing to the Grizzlies and Pistons. Cam could've taken over if he was there, especially since Mikal Bridges was defended well.

Getting Thomas back would be the boost the Nets need, as he provides a scoring punch that no one can match besides Mikal. The former Villanova Wildcat is in a slump, so it's up to someone like Thomas to pick up the pieces and take over.

Hopefully, he can come back as soon as possible, as the Nets still have a chance to qualify for the Play-In Tournament and catch up to the Hawks, who sit in the tenth seed.

Brooklyn's offense is better with Cam

Thomas has the skill set to solve the Nets' issues on offense. Coach Kevin Ollie has preached ball movement, but that still hasn't resulted in enough open looks. That is when a go-to scorer like Cam comes in, as he can isolate or penetrate to create scoring opportunities for himself or others.

When the former LSU Tiger returns, it will be helpful for the Nets' chances of winning more games. He wants to play already, and with that hunger to win games, it will be important in the last few games of the season. 

Kevin Ollie shows his support for Ben Simmons amidst the injury troubles