In a surprising move, the Brooklyn Nets waived Cam Thomas just months after signing him to a new one-year, $6 million qualifying offer (QO) for the 2025-2026 NBA season.
This decision raised eyebrows in the basketball world, especially considering Thomas' standout scoring ability during his time with the Nets.
So, what led to this unexpected move? Let’s break it down.
1. Contract Situation and Negotiation Standoff
Thomas’ situation began in the off-season, when he signed a one-year, $6 million qualifying offer from the Nets instead of a longer contract extension.
This decision came after a failed negotiation between the two sides, with the Nets and Thomas unable to agree on terms for a multi-year deal.
His QO allowed him to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, giving him control over his future destination but limiting the Nets’ ability to trade him during the season.
This also meant that Brooklyn could only retain Thomas for a single season, making his future uncertain.
2. Limited Trade Market
Despite strong individual performances, especially in scoring, Thomas’ trade market was limited throughout the season.
Teams weren’t rushing to acquire a player with defensive and playmaking inconsistencies.
Additionally, Thomas had a history of injuries, particularly issues with his hamstrings, which raised red flags for potential suitors.
This limited Brooklyn’s ability to trade him, even during the trade deadline.
As a result, the Nets couldn’t find the right deal to capitalize on his value, and his future with the team became less clear.
3. Roster Crunch and Strategic Rebuild
The Brooklyn Nets were clearly in a rebuilding phase, prioritizing flexibility and long-term development over maintaining established players like Thomas.
With the team looking to develop young talent, acquire future draft picks, and create roster space for new acquisitions, Thomas became expendable.
Brooklyn also recently traded for Ochai Agbaji, which created a roster crunch, and further complicated their decision to keep Thomas.
Waiving him freed up a much-needed roster spot to align with the team’s future goals.
4. Fit Issues and Benchings
Another factor in the decision to waive Thomas was potential fit issues with the Nets’ overall strategy.
Reports indicated that Thomas' relationship with the team had soured, particularly after an incident in which he was benched for refusing to take a shot with the shot clock winding down.
This, combined with his inconsistency on the court and defensive struggles, may have led to friction between Thomas and the coaching staff.
His limited impact during stretches of the season, as well as missing 20 games due to injury, only added to the concerns.
5. The Waiver Decision
In the end, Brooklyn opted to waive Thomas, giving him the chance to become a free agent immediately.
This decision allowed the Nets to preserve future cap flexibility, clear up roster space, and pivot toward their rebuilding strategy.
For Thomas, being waived gives him an opportunity to join a new team that better suits his skills and needs.
Conclusion
The decision to waive Cam Thomas was a combination of contract complexities, lack of trade interest, roster constraints, and fit issues.
While he showcased scoring potential, the Brooklyn Nets ultimately decided it was in their best interest to part ways, focusing on their long-term rebuilding strategy.
Thomas now enters the free-agent market with the chance to continue his career elsewhere.
