Overview
- Head coach Jordi Fernandez said Thomas will remain on a minutes restriction, praising his recent playmaking but stressing a cautious approach with his body.
- Since returning on Dec. 27, Thomas has come off the bench, averaging roughly 22–24 minutes with about 12 points per game and recording 10 assists with 3 points in Sunday’s loss at Chicago.
- The 24-year-old has dealt with recurring left hamstring issues, missing most of last season after three setbacks and reinjuring the same hamstring earlier this season.
- Brooklyn’s rotation and defense strengthened during Thomas’s absence, including a top defensive rating in December, which has lessened urgency to restore his earlier scoring role.
- Thomas is on a one-year, $6 million qualifying offer that positions him for unrestricted free agency this summer, and his limited role has fueled outside speculation about possible trade options before Feb. 5.