The Brooklyn Nets have been hesitant to offer Cam Thomas a long-term contract during his slow-moving restricted free agency. Brooklyn’s offers have not exceeded two-year proposals worth approximately $14.1 million annually with a team option.
Fischer reported the developments during last week’s B/R livestream. The Nets appear in no rush to expedite discussions with Thomas’ representation regarding a contract extension.
Thomas is seeking a salary in the $30 million range annually, similar to other restricted free agents. His current demands significantly exceed Brooklyn’s offers, which have been structured around the league’s non-taxpayer midlevel exception.
The guard averaged 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 31.2 minutes over 25 games last season. Thomas is considered one of the league’s better pure scorers despite concerns about his overall impact.
If Thomas doesn’t sign a contract this offseason, he could accept the $5.99 million qualifying offer. This would make him an unrestricted free agent next summer, giving him more leverage in negotiations.
Thomas faces a decision between accepting Brooklyn’s limited offers or betting on himself with the qualifying offer route.