Cam Thomas Injured as Nets Win First Game of Season

INDIANAPOLIS — The Brooklyn Nets won their first game of the season, but they lost their leading scorer, Cam Thomas, to another hamstring injury. Thomas left the game against the Indiana Pacers midway through the first quarter due to tightness in his left hamstring, the same injury that plagued him last season.

Thomas had missed a jump shot with 6:46 remaining in the first quarter when he appeared to injure himself upon landing. He immediately signaled to the bench for a substitution and was ruled out for the remainder of the game shortly after. Brooklyn Nets head coach Jordi Fernández reported that Thomas was doing well and expected to be reevaluated the following Thursday. “We missed him. This team needs his aggressiveness,” Fernández said.

Last season, Thomas dealt with multiple injuries to the same hamstring, limiting him to just 25 games despite averaging 24.0 points per game. This season, he signed a one-year qualifying offer with the Nets and is currently averaging 21.4 points in eight games played.

In the absence of Thomas, the Nets managed a come-from-behind 112-103 victory against Indiana at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The victory marked Brooklyn’s first win after an earlier 0-7 start. Trailing by three points going into the final quarter, the Nets unleashed a 21-8 run to secure the win.

Michael Porter Jr. led the Nets with a game-high 32 points and 11 rebounds. Nic Claxton contributed with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, clinching his third double-double of the season. Terance Mann stepped up at point guard, scoring 15 points and providing six assists.

The Pacers were without several key players, including star guard Tyrese Haliburton and T.J. McConnell, which contributed to their struggles on the court. Indiana’s coach, Rick Carlisle, was also ejected during the game, adding to their challenges.

Brooklyn now prepares to host the Detroit Pistons on Friday. Rookies Ben Saraf, Nolan Traore, and Danny Wolf were sent to the G-League, while Drake Powell showcased positive movement during practice following his recent ankle sprain.

“I’m working my way back to fully 100 percent. I’ll probably go back to the practice facility for some rehab stuff to see how I feel for Friday,” Powell said.