© Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Cameron Thomas continues to heat up as the Nets' first option
The Brooklyn Nets finally notched their first win of the 2023/24 season on the back of Cameron Thomas' performance, who is once again proving he deserves to be the number-one offensive option. He scored 33 points on an efficient 10/17 from the field, hitting 12 out of his 14 free throws to beat the Charlotte Hornets 133-121.
With that performance, Cam became the second-youngest player in NBA history to score 30+ points to start the season, with only the legendary Shaquille O’Neal ahead of him. It is a testament to how much Cam has taken over the Nets' offense under head coach Jacque Vaughn.
“Just need to play the game and be comfortable, playing within the flow of the offense,” Cam said in his post-game presser. “Credit to all the guys finding me in transition and even in the half-court when they let me go iso, get all the spacing when I have the matchup I want. Credit to the guys for letting me attack and to the coaches as well. It’s just comfortable.”
Settling in as the first option
While many anticipated Mikal Bridges to lead the Nets in scoring for the 2023/24 season, Thomas has now assumed that role, overshadowing Mikal's respectable 20.7 points per game with an impressive average of 33 points per game.
The Nets are giving Thomas the freedom to play his game, and with an astonishing field goal percentage of 61.4%, he's on an extraordinary scoring streak. While there may be some regression in the future, if the Nets continue to utilize him effectively, Cam's future in Brooklyn looks promising.
The Nets’ offense is progressing well
With Thomas and Bridges set as the two leading scorers for the squad, the Nets look set to compete for a Playoff spot. They finish plays well with their skill sets, but they’re also supported by a premier playmaker in Ben Simmons, who thrives with finding the open shot in both half-court sets and transition.
Thomas' ascent to the primary offensive role is a seamless development, considering his history as a prolific scorer. Back in high school, he held the title of all-time leading scorer at the renowned Oak Hill Academy. Additionally, he became the first freshman since 1989, when Chris Jackson, also known as Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, accomplished the same in the SEC.
The Nets will be a competitive bunch that opposing teams should look out for. They are ready to compete on both ends of the floor, especially with an elite scoring talent in Cam leading the charge.
