Does Thomas Deserve a Large Extension?

Contract Outlook: Should the Nets Extend Cam Thomas?

Player: Cam Thomas

After a breakout season in which Cam Thomas averaged 24 points per game, the question now facing the Brooklyn Nets is simple: Should they lock him up long-term with a major extension?

Thomas was one of the few bright spots in a rocky year for Brooklyn. He showed he can score at all three levels, carry an offensive load, and take over games when needed. At just 23 years old, he’s already proven he can put up big numbers against top competition, and more importantly, he did it consistently. However there is concern about his health as he was mostly not able to stay healthy this past season, playing in only 25 games.

However, the Nets have to ask themselves what kind of team they’re building. If they’re planning a full rebuild, Thomas looks like a clear cornerstone, a young, dynamic scorer who can grow into a primary or secondary option. But if Brooklyn still wants to stay competitive and retool quickly, they’ll need to consider if Cam can develop into a more complete player, especially on defense and as a playmaker.

A major extension, potentially in the range of $30-40 million per year, would signal that the Nets are betting on Cam as a franchise building block. It's a risk, but one that might be worth taking, especially given how thin the market is for young scorers with his upside.