Isaiah Thomas is primed for a potential return to the NBA, creating buzz as he prepares for a workout with the Sacramento Kings' players. At 35 years old, Thomas, who began his storied career with the Kings after being drafted with the last pick of the 2011 NBA Draft, is eyeing another shot in the league.
Thomas’ journey in the NBA is nothing short of remarkable. His tenure in Sacramento ended with a sign-and-trade deal during the 2014 offseason, a move that saw him embark on an enduring and eventful career. Last season, the veteran point guard made brief appearances with the Phoenix Suns, playing six games, and also featured in the G League with the Salt Lake City Stars for four games. Despite limited playtime in recent years, his determination to compete remains undeterred. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas stated, emphasizing his continued passion for the game.
This workout in Sacramento isn't Thomas' first attempt to catch the attention of NBA teams this offseason. He participated in sessions with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas just last month. Even after years of battling hip injuries, which have restricted him to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017, Thomas remains undaunted. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he revealed, underscoring his relentless pursuit of an NBA comeback.
Reuniting with the Kings
Returning to where it all began, Thomas' forthcoming workout with the Kings is a poignant full-circle moment. Joining him are a trio of NBA hopefuls: guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. Each player brings a unique set of skills and recent experiences that could aid the Kings in their quest for depth and talent.
Lonnie Walker IV is coming off a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, where he demonstrated his shooting prowess, nailing 38.4% from beyond the arc, and averaging an impressive 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His scoring ability and efficiency could provide the Kings with a significant offensive boost from the bench.
Juan Toscano-Anderson, another workout participant, played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before concluding the season with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. His versatility and defensive contributions could make him a valuable asset in varying lineups. Meanwhile, Tony Bradley, who spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends, adds another layer of competitiveness and interior presence to the workout roster.
Legacy and Resilience
Isaiah Thomas’ career peaked during his time with the Boston Celtics, most notably in the 2016-2017 season, where he finished fifth in MVP voting. His offensive firepower and clutch performances turned heads, proving that despite his stature, he could dominate the league’s best. That season remains a testament to his abilities and resilience.
Yet, the hip injury has been an unyielding adversary, curtailing his appearances and impact for the better part of the last six years. Nonetheless, Thomas' unwavering determination and love for the game have kept him in the conversation, as he continues to seek a fitting final chapter to his NBA career.
As the Kings evaluate their options and gear up for the upcoming season, Thomas' potential addition brings an intriguing blend of experience, leadership, and a scoring punch that could prove invaluable. Whether this workout leads to another stint with his original team or paves the way for opportunities elsewhere, it's clear that Isaiah Thomas remains a player worth watching as he chases the twilight of his career with the same vigor that marked its dawn.