Full Breakdown
Milwaukee Bucks Waive Cam Thomas After Brief Tenure
3/24/2026, 2:05:25 PM
Overview of the Decision
The Milwaukee Bucks have waived guard Cam Thomas, just weeks after signing him on February 8, 2026. This decision comes as the team aims to convert forward Pete Nance's two-way contract into a standard NBA contract. Thomas's time with the Bucks lasted only 18 games, during which he averaged 10.7 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
Performance and Expectations
Initially, the Bucks viewed Thomas as a potential key contributor to their playoff aspirations. General Manager Jon Horst had touted Thomas's scoring ability, and head coach Doc Rivers compared him to notable sixth men like Lou Williams and Jamal Crawford after a strong debut, where he scored 34 points against the Orlando Magic. However, Thomas's performance declined significantly, averaging only 9.6 points and 1.9 assists over the subsequent games, with a shooting percentage of 41% and a mere 22% from three-point range.
Reasons for Waiving Thomas
The decision to waive Thomas has raised eyebrows, particularly given the Bucks' position in the standings, currently sitting in 11th place in the Eastern Conference. Critics suggest that the Bucks' loss of faith in Thomas stemmed from his defensive shortcomings and inability to contribute effectively without dominating the ball. The emergence of other guards, such as Ryan Rollins and AJ Green, further diminished Thomas's role within the team.
Official Statements & Responses
While the Bucks had high hopes for Thomas, the organization ultimately decided to prioritize other players who could better fit their strategy moving forward. The front office's decision reflects a shift in focus towards players who can contribute more consistently as the team prepares for the future.
Criticism & Opposition
The rapid decision to waive Thomas has drawn criticism from fans and analysts alike, who question the timing and rationale behind the move. Many believe that a team in a losing position should not be releasing players so close to the end of the season, especially when they had previously invested in Thomas's potential.
What's Next for Cam Thomas
Following his release, Thomas is eligible to sign with another NBA team; however, he will not be able to participate in the 2026 playoffs due to being waived after the March 1 eligibility deadline. As he seeks a new opportunity, Thomas's value may have diminished, and he will need to prove himself to regain traction in the league.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I never asked. I don’t even care anymore. I’m on a different team. I don’t want to talk about them much. But that’s what it was. They didn’t believe,” — Cam Thomas, reflecting on his time with the Brooklyn Nets.
- “ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the following about the news: “The Milwaukee Bucks are waiving Cam Thomas just weeks after signing him, sources tell ESPN.” — Shams Charania, ESPN.
In summary, the Milwaukee Bucks' decision to waive Cam Thomas marks a significant turn in the player's career, highlighting the challenges he faced in securing a stable position within the NBA.
