Lakers Are Showing Interest in Cam Thomas
The trade deadline has come and gone, but even after acquiring Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles has one roster spot remaining. One of the names floating around is young former Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas. According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, Thomas is “another more polarizing option”.
Thomas’ name was mentioned in trade talks around the deadline, but ultimately was waived. He was a free agent this past summer and did not really have interest on the open market. He ended up signing a qualifying offer worth $6 million to stay in Brooklyn for the 2025-2026 season.
Scoring Threat
Thomas has always been able to score the basketball at ease. Last season, he finished the year averaging 24 points in just 25 games played. This season, he has taken a step back, only averaging 15 points on 40% shooting from the field.
He would not slide into the starting lineup, but he could really help and provide an impact off the bench. Los Angeles is averaging 28 points per game off the bench, which is the lowest in the league. Ultimately, with Thomas and Rui Hachimura coming in relief of the Lakers’ three stars, this would help resolve the bench scoring woes.
Defensive Liability
It is no secret that the Lakers have struggled defensively this season. With Kennard in the rotation and the potential of bringing in Thomas, the Lakers may continue to struggle on that end of the floor.
This season alone, Thomas has only four steals and two blocks. He also has a +/- of -133 when he is on the floor. The scoring would definitely help solve some problems, but the defensive struggles will contribute to the Lakers’ season-long problems.
Who should the Lakers sign off the buyout market? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/xRktxET7rr
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) February 7, 2026
Good Fit Or Bad Fit?
Thomas is a very prominent name on the buyout market this season and would provide a spark on offense. But in terms of need, they’re much better pivoting in another direction. Haywood Highsmith is the ideal fit for this team, as he was also waived by the Nets.
The Lakers are going to be active, as they have one roster spot remaining, but it remains to be seen what Los Angeles will do.
