Brooklyn Nets waive Cam Thomas after signing him to new deal

The 24-year-old volume scorer struggled to find a trade market despite his offensive production over the past three seasons.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 6:07pm

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The Brooklyn Nets have waived 24-year-old guard Cam Thomas just months after signing him to a one-year, $6 million contract. Thomas, a volume scorer who has averaged 21.4 points per game over the past three seasons, was unable to find a trade market despite the Nets' efforts. The move comes as a surprise, as Thomas was expected to be a key part of the Nets' offense this season. However, his defensive struggles and the emergence of other young players like Michael Porter Jr. and Egor Demin led to his release.

Why it matters

Thomas' plight is seen as a referendum on the challenges of restricted free agency in the current NBA landscape, where teams are more cautious about handing out contracts to unproven players. His release also highlights the Nets' ongoing roster shakeup as they try to turn around their disappointing season.

The details

The Nets were unable to find a trade partner for Thomas, despite reported talks with the Cleveland Cavaliers about a deal involving Lonzo Ball. Thomas' shooting numbers and defensive issues this season made him expendable, even as a young player with offensive talent. The Nets are now moving in a different direction, with Porter and Demin emerging as key parts of their future.

  • Thomas signed a one-year, $6 million contract with the Nets in the offseason.
  • He was waived by the Nets on February 5, 2026, just after the NBA trade deadline passed.

The players

Cam Thomas

A 24-year-old guard who has averaged 21.4 points per game over the past three seasons with the Brooklyn Nets.

Michael Porter Jr.

A young player who has emerged as a key offensive focal point for the Nets this season.

Egor Demin

A rookie who has earned a starting spot in the Nets' lineup this season.

Lonzo Ball

A player the Nets reportedly discussed trading for in a deal that would have sent Cam Thomas to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“I'd rather control my situation. As a player, that's the type of control you want in your situation.”

— Cam Thomas (nytimes.com)

What’s next

Thomas will now become an unrestricted free agent, able to sign with any team that is interested in his services.

The takeaway

Cam Thomas' release by the Nets highlights the challenges young players can face in the current NBA landscape, where teams are increasingly cautious about handing out long-term contracts. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of 'betting on yourself' in restricted free agency.