Isaiah Thomas, the seasoned NBA guard known for his impressive run with the Boston Celtics, is making headlines once again. At 35 years old, Thomas is set to join the Sacramento Kings for a workout session with the team's players. This return to Sacramento is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's a potential opportunity for Thomas to extend his storied career.
A Familiar Setting
Thomas' connection with the Kings runs deep. He began his NBA career with Sacramento after being drafted with the No. 60 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. His tenure with the team ended in the 2014 offseason with a sign-and-trade, but the memories and impact remained significant both for Thomas and for Kings’ fans. Fast forward nearly a decade, and the veteran guard is ready to showcase his skills once more in the city where it all started. As Thomas stated, "I want to play a year or two more," underscoring his unwavering dedication to the game.
Recent Journeys
The past season was a whirlwind for Thomas. He played six games for the Phoenix Suns and four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. In addition, he participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month. However, Thomas' journey hasn't been without its setbacks. Since 2017, a hip injury has limited him to fewer than 40 games in any season. Despite these challenges, Thomas remains optimistic and committed. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he shared, indicating his proactive approach to staying in the league.
Joining the Kings' Workout
The Kings' workout session will feature a blend of familiar faces and new talent. Alongside Thomas, guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley will be participating. Walker, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, shot 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes, showcasing his offensive prowess. Toscano-Anderson, meanwhile, played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. Bradley spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends, continuing to hone his skills and maintain his readiness for NBA opportunities.
Reflecting on the Past
While Thomas' journey has seen its share of ups and downs, his 2017 season with the Boston Celtics remains a career highlight. That year, he finished fifth in MVP voting, a testament to his talent and impact on the game. It's a season that many fans and analysts look back on with admiration, reminding everyone of the heights Thomas is capable of reaching when at his best.
Looking Ahead
As Thomas steps onto the court in Sacramento once again, there are many who will be watching with keen interest. His perseverance in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration, and his desire to continue playing speaks volumes about his love for the game. Whether or not this workout session leads to a contract, it's clear that Isaiah Thomas' story is far from over. For now, fans and the NBA community will wait and see what the future holds for this resilient and talented guard.