"Before the injury, Brooklyn's offense revolved almost entirely around Thomas' scoring gravity. The ball stuck. Possessions narrowed. And while Thomas produced points, the Nets struggled to produce wins or stops. They opened the season 0-7, leaking points at a historic rate and searching for an identity that never fully materialized. Thomas' usage reflected both his talent and the team's dependence on it."
"But everything shifted when Thomas went down. With no choice but to spread the offense beyond him, the Nets leaned into movement, spacing and shared decision-making. Michael Porter Jr. stepped into a leading role and thrived, turning opportunity into consistency and pushing himself into the All-Star conversation. Young players began playing with purpose instead of survival instincts. And defensively, Brooklyn found its footing, posting the league's best defensive rating in December. Lineups grew longer and more switchable."
Cam Thomas returns Saturday after a long rehab from a left hamstring strain. The Nets developed a clearer identity and improved defensively during his absence. The offense shifted away from Thomas' dominant scoring gravity toward movement, spacing and shared decision-making. Michael Porter Jr. assumed a leading role, produced consistent play and entered All-Star consideration. Younger players gained confidence and defensive effort became a baseline, producing better ratings and more competitive results. Lineups became longer and more switchable, improving communication and habits. Coach Jordi Fernández still identifies Thomas' scoring and late-clock creation as necessary components of Brooklyn's roster.
Read at New York Daily News
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