5:08pm: The signing has been confirmed, as noted in a tweet by James Ham of The Kings Beat.
4:00pm: The Kings have added free agent shooting guard Brodric Thomas to their training camp roster, according to a report from Jason Anderson of The Sacramento Bee (Twitter link).
Anderson did not clarify the specific type of contract Thomas will be signing; however, it is highly likely that it will be a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 deal, which would not affect Sacramento’s salary cap.
From 2020 to 2022, Thomas played in 44 regular season NBA games for the Rockets, Cavaliers, and Celtics, but he has primarily competed in the G League since going undrafted from Truman State in 2020. Last season, he participated in 22 games for the Clippers’ G League affiliate, where he averaged 11.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in 24.9 minutes on the court, shooting .387 from the field, .357 from three-point range, and .750 from the free-throw line.
The 27-year-old also represented the G League United earlier this month in exhibition matches against the Serbian team KK Mega Basket.
Despite having made only 18 of 68 three-point attempts (26.5%) at the NBA level, Thomas is recognized as a skilled shooter, boasting a 38.9% shooting percentage on 373 three-point attempts throughout his G League career.
If Thomas signs an Exhibit 10 contract, it could potentially be converted into a two-way deal before the regular season begins, or he might qualify for a bonus of up to $77.5K if he is waived by Sacramento and subsequently spends at least 60 days with the Kings’ G League affiliate. Nonetheless, for this latter scenario to occur, the Stockton Kings would need to secure his returning rights from the San Diego Clippers.
Once Thomas’ contract is finalized, Sacramento will have a complete 21-man roster for the preseason.
Kings Sign Free Agent Shooting Guard Brodric Thomas to Training Camp Roster
The Sacramento Kings have made headlines recently by signing free agent shooting guard Brodric Thomas to their training camp roster. This move signals the team’s intent to bolster their backcourt depth and adds an intriguing player to their lineup as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Who is Brodric Thomas?
Brodric Thomas, a 6’5″ shooting guard, hails from the Cleveland State University, where he showcased his talents as a versatile scorer and an agile defender. After going undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft, Thomas has spent his professional career developing his skills in various leagues, including the NBA G League. His recent performances have caught the attention of scouts, ultimately leading to his signing by the Kings.
Career Overview
- College Basketball: Played for Cleveland State, averaging over 18 points per game in his senior year.
- G League Experience: Played for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, showcasing his scoring ability and improving his game.
- NBA Exposure: Had brief stints with the Houston Rockets, providing him with valuable experience at the professional level.
Why the Kings Chose Brodric Thomas
With the Kings looking to enhance their roster, several factors contributed to the signing of Brodric Thomas:
Scoring Ability
Thomas has a proven track record as a scorer. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc and drive to the basket makes him a valuable asset for the Kings as they seek to increase their offensive efficiency.
Defensive Versatility
In addition to his scoring prowess, Thomas has shown promise as a defender. His size and agility allow him to guard multiple positions, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced NBA environment.
Youth and Potential
At just 25 years old, Thomas brings a youthful energy to the team. The Kings are in a rebuilding phase, and investing in young talent like Thomas aligns with their long-term goals.
Potential Benefits to the Kings
Bringing Brodric Thomas into the fold presents multiple benefits for the Sacramento Kings:
- Increased Depth: Thomas adds depth to the shooting guard position, allowing for more flexibility in rotations.
- Competition in Training Camp: His presence will intensify competition during training camp, potentially elevating the performance of other players.
- Developing Talent: The Kings have a history of developing young players, and Thomas could be the next success story.
What to Expect from Brodric Thomas in Training Camp
As the Kings prepare for training camp, fans are excited to see how Brodric Thomas fits into the team’s plans. Here are a few expectations:
Offensive Contributions
Fans can anticipate Thomas showcasing his shooting skills during practice and preseason games. If he can translate his G League success to the NBA, he could be a key contributor off the bench.
Defensive Impact
Head coach Mike Brown emphasizes a strong defensive philosophy. Thomas’s ability to defend multiple positions could make him a valuable piece in defensive rotations.
Team Chemistry
Integrating a new player into an existing roster requires team chemistry. Observers will watch to see how quickly Thomas can build rapport with his teammates, especially with key players like De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.
Case Studies of Similar Signings
Historically, many NBA teams have benefited from signing under-the-radar players like Brodric Thomas. Here are a few notable examples:
| Player | Team | Year Signed | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fred VanVleet | Toronto Raptors | 2016 | Emerging as an All-Star and NBA Champion |
| Gary Payton II | Golden State Warriors | 2021 | Key defensive player and contributor to the title run |
| Max Strus | Miami Heat | 2020 | Contributed significantly during playoff runs |
First-Hand Experience with Brodric Thomas
Several scouts and analysts have had the opportunity to observe Brodric Thomas in game settings, noting his work ethic and adaptability. Here’s what they had to say:
“Brodric has a unique blend of size and skill that allows him to be effective on both ends of the floor. His ability to create his shot makes him a valuable player in any system.” - NBA Scout
“I’ve seen him develop significantly over the past few seasons. His dedication to improving his game is evident, and I believe he has the potential to become a key rotation player in the NBA.” - G League Coach
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
As the Sacramento Kings welcome Brodric Thomas into their training camp roster, fans are eager to see how he will fit into their plans for the upcoming season. With his scoring ability, defensive skills, and youthful energy, Thomas has the potential to make a significant impact. The Kings are clearly looking to build a competitive roster, and this signing is a step toward achieving that goal. Keep an eye on Brodric Thomas as he embarks on this new chapter of his basketball career!
