NEW YORK — Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas has been in a tough spot this season as his role has constantly changed. After scoring 46 points in Sunday’s 134-105 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, Thomas has played in 57 out of 82 games this season for the Nets. However, the 25 games that he missed were because of a coach’s decision, not because of injury. On Sunday, Thomas was able to forget all of that and just stay in the moment.
“Just being aggressive early on,” Thomas said in response to how he was able to score so many points despite having an inconsistent role. Before Sunday, the last time Thomas played more than nine minutes was when he played 27 minutes in a 119-106 loss to the Orlando Magic on Mar. 26. Thomas had 18 points in that contest. “Knowing I had the opportunity to be aggressive, the whole game. Just got to be able to play my game and just play the right way,” Thomas continued.
Thomas was one point shy of tying his career-high for points in an NBA game and Philadelphia doubling him towards the end prevented him from breaking his career-high and possibly scoring 50 points. Thomas scored 47 points in a 124-116 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Feb. 6.
The fact that Thomas was able to play the way that he did on Sunday is a testament to his mental fortitude and ability to stay ready in all situations. “Just me loving the game, respecting the game,” Thomas said when asked how he stays ready for when his number is called. “You know, just me loving to hoop at all times. Whenever you have a chance to hoop, everybody tell you you’re gonna play a lot, you lock in and try to like, give your best because you don’t wanna mess up any opportunities, you know? Very limited around here.”
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