Cam Thomas has been on a tear since he joined the Milwaukee Bucks, and he's still being kept on a tight leash. After Milwaukee's recent win over the New Orleans Pelicans, Doc Rivers was asked why Thomas only played 20 minutes despite having 27 points, to which he replied that the guard is on a minutes restriction due to a hamstring injury dating back to his time with the Brooklyn Nets.
Cam Thomas still has another level to reach with Bucks
The young guard certainly doesn't look like someone being hindered by a hamstring issue. Against the Pelicans, he was phenomenal off the bench, attacking the hoop with ferocity and oftentimes contorting his body every which way to get a bucket. Some of the shots he hit were flat-out jaw-dropping, and it all helped fuel a 27-point evening off the bench.
In his four games with the Milwaukee Bucks, Thomas is averaging 19.3 points per outing, giving this team a shot in the arm when things were looking grim. He's doing so in just 19.8 minutes per game. Imagine what he's capable of once that restriction is lifted and he can roam free. It's fascinating to think he can produce even more for this squad.
Milwaukee's bench production has been inconsistent all season, but Thomas has done his part to bring some consistency. Prior to Thomas' arrival, Milwaukee's bench averaged 36.2 points a night, 18th most in the NBA. Over the last four games since he's put on the green jersey, the second unit has risen to eighth in the league with 47.5 per game. Talk about an immediate difference-maker.
With Thomas, Milwaukee now has a fearsome guard trio that looks like it can compete with the best of them. Ryan Rollins and Kevin Porter Jr. were also both sensational against the Pelicans, with the former chipping in 27 points, while the latter added 25. Having three go-to guards who can get a bucket when needed has been a luxury for the now-surging Milwaukee Bucks.
Milwaukee has been immediately vindicated for taking a chance on Thomas. Whether it was through trade or free agency, the Bucks were always the team with the most interest in him. Others were too worried about narratives coming out of Brooklyn, while the Bucks knew the young guard could be a great fit with this team. Now, they are undoubtedly reaping the benefits.
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