Cleveland Cavaliers guard Meleek Thomas has had one heck of a Summer League. Across four games, he's put an average of 27.25 points per game, while shooting 50% from the floor and 43.75% from three. He also averaged nearly four rebounds and four assists per game, with his per-game averages being 3.8 for both statistical categories.
It was a stellar outing for the Cavs, who finished 3-2 in the Summer League.
Thomas outperformed people like AJ Dybantsa, who happened to be the first overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards. Thomas was a second-rounder the Cavs got with the 34th pick in the same draft. Meaning 32 players went between Dybansta and Thomas. Yet, Thomas had the better summer outing.
With the run the Cavs' new guard had, many people are talking about how Thomas may be a piece the team could use heading into the 2026-2027 season. Thomas, after all, proved he has incredible skills to generate points.
More: Anthony Edwards has accepted that LeBron James won't be playing for the Timberwolves
It should be noted, however, that the Summer League is often filled with either rookies or unremarkable veteran players who are hoping to catch on with a team in any capacity whatsoever. This isn't exactly a who's who of pro players that Thomas just torched. Most of these guys will be playing somewhere outside of the NBA come November. So it's wild to hear some people think the Cavs can just start dumping veteran guards to make room for Thomas.
Yes, the second-round guard really put on a clinic, but the lack of talent in the Summer League can't be ignored.
Thomas wasn't playing against the Association's best defenders. The guys he'll see on the next level will be faster, stronger, longer, and just better than the guys Thomas was dealing with this summer. Yes, he played well, and no one is saying he isn't capable of being a good player. Assuming Thomas will be able to make an impact, all because of a few games this summer against mostly mediocre or unremarkable future overseas players, is short-sighted.
Thomas could very well struggle in the NBA. He could be the next second-round pick to find success as an All-Star; anything is possible at this point in time. It's just impossible to say which version he'll likely become based on solely four games. We need to give Thomas more time and room to struggle before we anoint him a key cog in the Cavaliers offense.
More NBA news:
The Timberwolves attempted a trade with the Bulls before trading for LaMelo Ball
Chris Finch knows LaMelo Ball will be a net positive for Anthony Edwards
Tim Connelly thinks the Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball backcourt could convince LeBron James to sign with the Timberwolves
LaMelo Ball is ecstatic to be playing with fellow 2020 standout Anthony Edwards
LaMelo Ball has been sighted in Minnesota in another eye-catching appearance