Cam Thomas was surprised by Kyrie Irving's trade demand, but it has not changed how he feels about his Brooklyn Nets teammate.

Irving's request for a trade was lodged on Friday and has led to a flurry of interest ahead of Thursday's trade deadline.

The Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns are among the franchises attributed with an interest in Irving, with the Nets mulling over their options as they seek to remain competitive ahead of the imminent return from injury of Kevin Durant.

While Irving's demand caught his teammates off guard, Thomas insisted the 30-year-old was still his "brother".

"Yeah, of course, everybody was surprised, but it's not my business, that's still my brother at the end of the day," he told reporters.

"He's one of the few guys who I really consider a brother in basketball. Just a big brother who I can look up to and ask anything to.

"So, whatever happens, happens, but he's still my brother no matter what at the end of the day."

Asked whether he has spoken directly to Irving, Thomas added: "For what? That's his business. I'm trying to get ready for a game.

"At the end of the day, he's made the best decision for himself. Whatever he does, I'm going to be supporting him, be happy for him, still call him and everything, but right now, they've got their own business going on."

Irving was absent from the Nets' 125-123 victory against the Washington Wizards on Saturday due to right calf soreness. Thomas was the standout figure in that game, with the 21-year-old stepping off the bench to score 44 points.