PREVIEW: Cavs look to sustain offensive surge against Timberwolves on Monday

2. Thomas adds new dimension to offense

In a small sample size of two games (40 minutes), Thomas has tallied 36 points, two rebounds, seven assists, six personal fouls and seven turnovers. His contributions have provided an offensive spark for the Wine and Gold, as they scored 127 points vs. Portland on Jan. 2 and a season-high 131 points vs. Orlando on Jan. 6. The two totals rank among the five best throughout the campaign…

• 1. Jan. 6, 2018: 131-127 win over Orlando
• 2. Nov. 3, 2017: 130-122 win over Washington
• 3. Jan. 2, 2018: 127-110 win over Portland
• 4. Nov. 7, 2017: 124-119 win over Milwaukee
• 5. Dec. 12, 2017: 123-114 win over Atlanta

Although the defense has surrendered triple-digit points in each of the last five contests – a concerning, 2-3 stretch – Thomas has given a needed boost to the first and second units in limited playing time thus far. Expect his minutes to gradually rise as he continues to find his rhythm, absorb more contact and develop a rapport with his teammates.

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