Nets select Cameron Thomas with No. 27 pick

With the No. 27 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, the Brooklyn Nets have selected LSU shooting guard Cameron Thomas.

Thomas excels at getting buckets. The 19-year-old Japan-born scorer averaged 23 points per game last season for the Tigers. That represented the fourth-best mark in Division I, just a shade worst than consensus Player of the Year Luka Garza.

Somewhat miraculously, Thomas - an All-SEC first-team selection - put up those numbers while only shooting 32.5% from beyond the arc. However, his shooting mechanics are good, and NBA-caliber coaching should help correct his shortcomings from deep.

Bio

Position: SG
Club: LSU
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 210 lbs
Wingspan: N/A
Max vertical: N/A

Strengths

• An elite shot-creator who can score at all three levels
• Can pull up off the dribble or penetrate
• Thrives both in isolation and off-ball
• Generates ample free-throw opportunities, and he shot 88% from the charity stripe

Weaknesses

• Typically plays below the rim
• Didn't exhibit strong defensive habits at LSU, especially on-ball
• At times displayed poor shot selection and an inability to find open teammates
• Low 3-point shooting percentage