The Nets indicated that Cam Thomas’ hamstring injury might be reevaluated in about three weeks. However, some experts believe it could take longer—possibly up to six weeks—before the guard returns to play, and they caution about the risk of re-injury.
Thomas had to exit Wednesday’s game in the first quarter due to a left hamstring strain. The team confirmed on Friday that he would undergo evaluation in three to four weeks.
“Injuries are always frustrating, no matter if it’s an ankle or something else. Nobody wants to deal with this. I think, though, I’ll bounce back quickly. It’s disappointing, yes, but at least it happened early in the season, right?” said the 24-year-old Thomas.
This injury is particularly tough for both Thomas and the Nets, especially considering that the same hamstring caused him significant trouble last season, limiting him to just 25 games.
As he approaches unrestricted free agency, Thomas has opted for a one-year qualifying offer worth $5.99 million, putting added pressure on him.
The Nets haven’t disclosed the severity of the injury, but Dr. Kenton Fiebel, a sports medicine expert, suggested it might be a Grade 2 strain, indicating that Thomas’ previous injuries could complicate things moving forward.
“Those who’ve had similar injuries may develop more scar tissue, which can make that area more susceptible to further damage,” Dr. Fiebel noted. He added that while some injuries do heal, it really hinges on the severity of past symptoms.
“Typically, a Grade 1 injury takes about one to two weeks to recover, while Grade 2 can stretch to four to six. If they’re saying three to four weeks for reassessment, it suggests we’re likely dealing with at least a Grade 2 scenario,” he explained.
Dr. Fiebel, also the medical director for the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks, emphasized the individual nature of injuries and various factors—like diet and muscle balance—that could increase the risk of hamstring issues. He’s been working with Thomas on these aspects.
“If it’s in the same area, you have to be particularly careful, but we are looking at everything holistically to lower the chances of this happening again,” he added.
While a three-week recovery would align with the Nets’ schedule against the 76ers, Dr. Fiebel expressed concerns that this timeline might be optimistic. He praised the Nets for being cautious, acknowledging Thomas’ injury history and the need for him to recover properly.
“It’s early in the season, and considering his past issues, it’s wise to take a conservative approach. He’s crucial to the team, and really, the focus should be on getting him back to full strength with minimal injury risk,” he said.
“When I feel ready and have healed completely, I’ll start the process of getting back on the court, which may take longer than expected.”
