NBA Notes: Nets, Cam Thomas, Heat, Tyler Herro, Pistons

Nets

The Nets like what they’re seeing from Cam Thomas. They’re just not ready to give him more, per Brian Lewis of the New York Post.

Thomas has settled into a bench role since returning from a hamstring injury about three weeks ago, and that role appears locked in for now. In Sunday’s loss to Chicago, Thomas leaned more playmaker than scorer, posting three points and 10 assists in 24 minutes.

Coach Jordi Fernandez made it clear the Nets are prioritizing health over expansion.

“We’re happy where he is,” Fernandez said, pointing to Thomas’ willingness to facilitate and the need to be cautious with his body.

That caution comes with context. Thomas is headed toward free agency and is dealing with the same hamstring issues that limited him to twenty-five games last season. Since returning, he’s averaging 12.0 points while shooting just over 40 percent, and Brooklyn is 4-16 in games he’s played.

Heat

The Heat will be without Tyler Herro for at least part of their road trip.

Herro did not travel after suffering a rib contusion and is now scheduled for an MRI, according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel’s Ira Winderman. What was initially believed to be minor is now less certain.

Injuries have defined Herro’s season. He has already missed 31 of Miami’s first 42 games, and the Heat are once again bracing for more lineup juggling.

Pistons

The Pistons hit the midpoint of the season Monday sitting where very few expected: On top of the East.

Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press pointed to three drivers: defense, dominance in the paint, and efficiency. Detroit ranks second in the league in all three categories.

It’s rare company. The Pistons have won at least 30 of their first 40 games for only the second time in franchise history, matching the 2005-06 team. They’re also tracking toward a 60-win season.

At some point, it stops being a surprise and starts being the standard.