Bucks Bet on Bench Scoring: Cam Thomas Signs in Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Bucks have officially added a high-octane offensive weapon to their rotation, signing free agent guard Cam Thomas on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The move, confirmed by Thomas’ agent Tony Ronzone of Wasserman, brings one of the league’s most explosive young scorers to a team desperate for offensive depth.
Thomas, 24, became an unrestricted free agent after being waived by the Brooklyn Nets following the trade deadline. Despite his elite scoring pedigree—averaging 21.4 points per game over the previous three seasons—Thomas struggled with efficiency and injury this year, hitting a career-low 40% from the field and 33% from deep while navigating a persistent hamstring strain.
Why the Bucks Pulled the Trigger
For Milwaukee (21-29), the acquisition is a calculated gamble on talent. The team’s offensive metrics tell a tale of two rosters:
With Giannis: The Bucks boast an elite offense (123.2 points per 100 possessions).
Without Giannis: They plummet to one of the league's worst (109.5).
With Giannis Antetokounmpo currently sidelined by a right calf strain suffered on January 23, the lack of a "self-made" scorer became glaring. Thomas provides exactly that—a bucket-getter who can create his own shot when the system breaks down.
"I picked Milwaukee because they wanted me and they told me they've been interested for years now," Thomas told Andscape. "It's good to have this opportunity come to fruition."
The Nets Exit: A Surprising Split
The Nets' decision to waive Thomas after the deadline was a shock to many insiders. Thomas had signed a $5.9 million qualifying offer over the summer but never found a long-term rhythm in Brooklyn this season. Tensions reportedly peaked on January 23, when Thomas was benched during a game against the Celtics for refusing to take a shot as the shot clock expired—a moment that highlighted the growing friction between the player and the organization.
Brooklyn attempted to trade Thomas before the deadline (ironically, including talks with Milwaukee), but when no deal materialized, they chose to release him, allowing the young guard to pick his destination.
The Road Ahead: Can Milwaukee Salvage the Season?
The Bucks currently sit as the 12th seed in the Eastern Conference, trailing the 10th-place Charlotte Hornets by two games. Despite the lowly standing, coach Doc Rivers has dismissed any talk of shutting Giannis down for the year.
The Strategy:
Survive the Strain: Integrate Thomas immediately to bolster the bench while Antetokounmpo rehabs.
The "Play-In" Push: Utilize a newfound three-game winning streak to leapfrog the Bulls and Hornets.
Championship Core: Maintain the star tandem of Lillard and Antetokounmpo while hoping Thomas provides the "microwave" scoring that was previously missing.
| Player | 2025-26 Season Avg (Nets) | Expected Role in MIL |
| Cam Thomas | 15.6 PPG / 3.1 APG | Sixth Man / Secondary Creator |
While critics point to Thomas' defensive lapses and "empty calorie" scoring, Milwaukee believes that in a winning culture alongside veteran leaders, he can finally channel his elite talent toward meaningful wins.
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