# Cavs Rookie Earning Trust

> Meleek Thomas, a Cavs rookie, already earns trust as a key team player after two games.
- Title: Cavs Rookie Earning Trust · Cleveland Cavaliers On SI
- Summary: Meleek Thomas, a Cavs rookie, already earns trust as a key team player after two games. Meleek Thomas, a Cavs rookie, has earned trust and is viewed as an…
- Keywords: meleek thomas, cavaliers, nba, rookie, cleveland, nba draft, basketball, sports, Cavs, Earning, Trust, Cleveland Cavaliers On SI
- Source: Cleveland Cavaliers On SI — https://si.com/nba/cavaliers/onsi/cavs-rookie-already-earning-trust-viewed-as-an-important-part-of-the-team-01m62yzff2mk
- Published: 2026-10-29T11:30:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: meleek thomas, cavaliers, nba, rookie, cleveland, nba draft, basketball, sports
## A Spark
Meleek Thomas provided a major spark off the bench for Cleveland in the last two games.
## Two Games In
Thomas has played two games for the Cavs after sitting out the first two.
## Team Energy
Jarrett Allen said Thomas brings energy that teammates try to match.

> Just tried to match Meleek’s energy, he was bringing energy, and I couldn’t let the rookie go out there and show us all up, so I had to catch up to him.
## Evan Mobley's View
Evan Mobley believes Thomas will be a great player in the league.

> He’s gonna be a great player in this league. He comes in and gives effort and energy every time, and we just ride that wave.
## Coach's Trust
Kenny Atkinson trusts Thomas to help the Cavs in his first season and beyond.

> We found a guy that can really help us. We're gonna trust him more. Wait until he gets more comfortable in the league. He’s going to be an important part of this team.
## Performance Stats
Thomas made 10-of-17 shots, including 4-of-6 3-pointers, with six rebounds and two steals.
## Draft Comparison
Thomas is better than the 34th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
## Team Impact
Thomas is a vital part of the Cavs’ backcourt and bench, with his role expanding as the season starts.
## What Happens Next
Thomas will continue to earn trust as the season progresses.
## Key takeaway

Meleek Thomas, a Cavs rookie, has earned trust and is viewed as an important part of the team after two games.