The offseason saga involving Cam Thomas and the Brooklyn Nets could be approaching a breaking point soon. With the Nets lowballing Thomas on their contract extension offer, the guard could be exploring his available options to facilitate an exit.
Recent reports indicated that the Nets offered a two-year, $28 million deal to the 23-year-old. Considering that Thomas was rumored to be expecting an offer in the range of $30 million annually, this represents a significant gap between expectations and reality.
As a restricted free agent, the market hasn’t been as kind to Thomas. Considering his recent outburst on social media, it is abundantly clear that the young guard is frustrated.
The outlook for the young guard is challenging. He displayed a lot of potential as a scorer last season, as he recorded an average of 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, while shooting 43.8% from the field.
Unfortunately, with injuries keeping him sidelined for long periods, the 23-year-old also only suited up for 25 games in the 2024-25 campaign.
While a $30 million annual fee may be a little unrealistic at the moment, an annual contract of roughly $14 million is a drastic undervaluation. With a middle ground in mind, we explore four potential sign-and-trade scenarios if the Nets and the guard hypothetically agreed to a three-year, $65 million deal.
Detroit Pistons
Proposed Trade Details
Detroit Pistons Receive: Cam Thomas
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jaden Ivey, Isaiah Stewart
This trade proposal presents an interesting outlook for both teams. For the Detroit Pistons, parting ways with Jaden Ivey seems like a surprising move. But considering recent rumors surrounding the guard, the Nets may have a solid basis in reality to pursue this deal.
Thomas’ addition to the Pistons could be a huge boost to the team. Paired with Cade Cunningham in the backcourt, the guard would become the outright second scoring option in a system where his only job is to score.
While the guard has been labeled as a “ball hog”, Thomas has still found ways to be productive. In a system where he isn’t required to make plays for others, he may even find an opportunity to further develop his scoring ability.
The Pistons also do this deal as a means of shedding some salary. Currently hard-capped at the first apron, parting ways with Ivey and Stewart would allow the franchise to clear approximately $5 million in salary. Overall, this deal could be of interest to Detroit.
Charlotte Hornets
Proposed Trade Details
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Cam Thomas
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Josh Green, Pat Connaughton, 2028 second-round pick (LAC swap)
The Nets would be content with doing this trade, acquiring two solid veterans and draft compensation to go with it. But a move to the Charlotte Hornets could be intriguing in deciding Thomas’ future development.
The Hornets have consistently been one of the weaker teams in the league. Although they are served by some talented players, the franchise hasn’t been able to record much success in the last few seasons.
Thomas’ arrival may not change that immediately, but it could be a catalyst for future development. Paired with an All-Star like LaMelo Ball in the backcourt, the 23-year-old would effectively be fulfilling the same role that Terry Rozier used to play for Charlotte during the 2023-24 season.
As an outright scorer, the guard would give a major boost to Charlotte’s offense, especially with Ball’s ability to create more efficient scoring opportunities for his teammates.
The only drawback of this proposal is that Connaughton’s trade restriction means this deal can’t be completed before September 6th.
Boston Celtics
Proposed Trade Details
Boston Celtics Receive: Cam Thomas, 2027 second-round pick (LAL), 2029 second-round pick (DAL)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Anfernee Simons
The Nets may not hesitate to do this trade, as it lets them acquire a capable young guard who could improve the overall roster strength. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics could also find some benefits in completing the deal.
The Celtics have actively been pursuing ways to trade Simons this offseason. As part of their ongoing efforts to shed salary, this trade proposal would allow them to clear approximately $7 million in salary, while also acquiring two valuable second-round draft picks.
For Thomas, this trade could be a new start. Although the Celtics could take a step back next season, the 23-year-old could continue to refine his game alongside some of the best veteran guards in the league.
Joining a franchise with a history of championship success could also help Thomas cultivate different skills. The young guard may have an opportunity to explore new horizons with his game, allowing him to grow into a much more complete player.
Golden State Warriors
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Cam Thomas, 2027 second-round pick (LAL)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Moses Moody, Buddy Hield
When looking at the Nets’ recent roster moves, the addition of a veteran like Hield and a solid two-way player may be in their interests. For the Golden State Warriors, the addition of Cam Thomas could be a huge boost to their scoring needs off the bench and the 2027 second-round pick would be crucial in rebuilding their draft reserves.
On a team like the Warriors, it is unlikely for the 23-year-old to earn a starting spot. This is primarily because of his limited scope of ability on the defensive end. But off the bench, Thomas could be Golden State’s primary offensive option.
Much like the Celtics, Thomas may be forced to adapt to playing in a system. This could be an unexpected opportunity for the guard to explore new aspects of his game, particularly in ways that yield positive results.
His scoring abilities have already been acknowledged. But on the Warriors, if he can be effective with the team instead of being a one-man show, he could gain experience contributing to winning basketball.
What Are The Next Steps For Cam Thomas?
As a restricted free agent, Thomas is in a fairly poor position. Considering that he doesn’t have much leverage in this situation, playing the waiting game may not work in his favor either.
While the guard could accept the offer presented to him, he could also consider signing the qualifying offer with the team. By sacrificing some money this season, the 23-year-old would effectively be betting on himself to garner interest as a talented young guard worth investing in next summer.
