The Brooklyn Nets haven’t exactly come out of the gates firing this season. After dropping their first seven games, they finally notched a win-but even that came with a tough blow. During that 112-103 victory over the Indiana Pacers, Cam Thomas went down with a left hamstring strain, the kind of injury that’s not only frustrating but, in his case, all too familiar.
Since that November 5 setback, Thomas has been sidelined, and the Nets have continued to struggle without one of their key offensive sparks. The good news?
There’s finally an update. Head coach Jordi Fernandez shared before Monday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets that Thomas is scheduled for an MRI at the end of the week.
“When we get the reads, we’ll give you guys an update,” Fernandez said. Not the most detailed timeline, but it’s something Nets fans have been waiting a month to hear.
For Thomas, the timing couldn’t be worse. This isn’t his first go-round with a left hamstring issue-he missed significant time last season for the same reason, suiting up in just 25 games. When healthy, Thomas brings a scoring punch that the Nets desperately need, especially in a season where offensive consistency has been hard to come by.
In his absence, others have had to step up-and on Monday night, Michael Porter Jr. answered the call in a big way. After missing the previous game with low back tightness, Porter returned to the floor with purpose, logging 36 minutes and dropping 35 points to go with four assists and seven rebounds. It was the kind of performance the Nets envisioned when they brought him in-efficient, aggressive, and timely.
Rookie forward Noah Clowney also made the most of his opportunity. In 30 minutes of action, he chipped in 18 points, four assists, and two boards, showing flashes of the versatility that made him a promising draft pick.
And Nic Claxton, the anchor in the paint, did what he does best-impact both ends. He recorded a double-double with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, continuing to show growth as a playmaking big.
The game itself had its early swings. Charlotte edged ahead by one after the first quarter, but Brooklyn responded in the second to even things up.
From there, the Nets took control, dominating the second half and closing out a 116-103 win at Barclays Center. It was a much-needed boost for a team that’s been searching for rhythm all season long.
Still, the Nets sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a 4-16 record, currently in 13th place. The road ahead doesn’t get any easier-they’ll travel next to face the Chicago Bulls at the United Center.
As for Cam Thomas, all eyes will be on that upcoming MRI. The Nets know they need him back, but they also know rushing a hamstring injury is a recipe for setbacks. For now, they’ll have to keep leaning on guys like Porter, Clowney, and Claxton to carry the load-and hope the momentum from this win can spark something more.