BROOKLYN — Cam Thomas shocked the market. The 23-year-old scorer accepted a one-year, $6 million qualifying offer from the Brooklyn Nets. The deal gives him a full no-trade clause and clears the path for unrestricted free agency in 2026, when more than 10 teams are projected to hold cap space.
Cam Thomas Rejects Richer Offers, Signs Qualifying Offer With Nets And Bets On Himself
Thomas rejected richer offers. Brooklyn reportedly put $30 million over two years on the table, with a team option. A separate one-year, $9.5 million offer would have left him tradable. He chose security on his terms.
Rare Move in Today’s NBA
Thomas becomes the first restricted free agent this summer to decide. He also joins rare company. Since 2017, only four other first-round picks have signed qualifying offers. That group includes names who gambled on themselves—and sometimes paid for it.
The Nets and Thomas failed to bridge the gap on a long-term extension. Instead of committing early, Thomas is betting his scoring can command the market next July.
Crowded Nets Rotation
It remains to be seen if Thomas will be given an earnest chance to put up points. The Nets drafted five rookies in June. The influx of young talent means more hands will need the ball.
For Brooklyn, this season already looks like a reset. For Thomas, it could mean fewer scoring opportunities. Limited touches could shrink his market value in 2026, the very summer he is betting on.
A Season That Raised Questions
The decision comes after a bittersweet year. Thomas averaged 24.0 points, 3.8 assists, and 3.3 rebounds in 31.2 minutes. But injuries kept him sidelined for 57 games. It was the first time he missed extended time in his career.
Even in limited action, defenses treated him like a star. He was double-teamed on 18 percent of his touches, per GeniusIQ, putting him at fourth in the league.
The Market Stood Still
Brooklyn entered the offseason as one of the few teams with real cap space. That froze the restricted free agent market. Other names—Josh Giddey, Jonathan Kuminga, and Quentin Grimes—remain in limbo.
The Nets refused to bid against themselves. No rival team even surfaced with an offer sheet for Thomas. In contrast, other restricted free agents at least drew whispers of interest.
High Stakes Ahead
By signing the Nets’ qualifying offer, Cam Thomas gains leverage and risk. He holds a no-trade clause this season. Next summer, he hits the market free of restrictions. If he stays healthy and keeps scoring, payday awaits.
If not, the gamble could backfire.
Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
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