Isaiah Thomas Set for a Familiar Return to Sacramento
At 35 years old, Isaiah Thomas is preparing for what he hopes will be another chapter in his storied NBA career, as he returns to Sacramento for a workout with some of the Kings' current players. This marks a significant moment for Thomas, who began his NBA journey with the Kings back in 2011 after being selected with the No. 60 pick in the draft.
Thomas’ initial tenure with the Kings culminated in a sign-and-trade in the 2014 offseason, sending him on a winding path through the league. This journey included a memorable stint with the Boston Celtics, where he finished fifth in MVP voting in 2017, catalyzing what many believed would be the prime of his career. However, a hip injury has since limited him to fewer than 40 games in any season post-2017, casting a shadow over his professional playing days.
Persistent Determination
Despite these setbacks, Thomas remains resolute in his pursuit to continue playing at the highest level. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas candidly expressed, underscoring his enduring passion for the game. His determination saw him participate in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month, a testament to his unwavering commitment to returning to the court. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he added, shedding light on the reality of his quest for a suitable spot in an NBA roster.
While last season saw Thomas play six games for the Phoenix Suns and four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, there were glimmers of the talent that once had him standing among the league's best. These appearances showcased not just his skill but his tenacity to overcome the physical challenges that have beleaguered him in recent years.
A Cohesive Workout Group
The upcoming workout isn’t solely focused on Thomas. The Kings' session will feature a diverse mix of players, including guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley.
Walker IV is coming off a strong season with the Brooklyn Nets, where he demonstrated lethal shooting from beyond the arc, hitting 38.4% of his three-point attempts, and showed his scoring prowess with an average of 20.1 points per 36 minutes. This performance has positioned him as a noteworthy asset for any team seeking to enhance their perimeter offense.
Toscano-Anderson, on the other hand, brings versatility and experience from his recent season. The forward played 11 games for the Kings during the 2023-24 season before finishing with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. His ability to switch between various roles on the floor complements the Kings' dynamic workout strategy.
Adding to the mix is Tony Bradley, who spent the last season honing his abilities with the G League's Texas Legends. Bradley’s presence adds depth to the workout session, providing the Kings with a comprehensive look at potential fits for their roster needs.
Looking Ahead
For Isaiah Thomas, the workout in Sacramento is more than just a trip down memory lane; it's a stepping stone back onto the NBA hardwood. With his extensive experience and undying love for the game, Thomas is eager to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the elite level.
The Kings, in turn, have the opportunity to assess not only a beloved former player’s current capabilities but also the potential contributions of Walker IV, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley. Together, this group represents a diverse blend of seasoned experience and fresh talent, all vying for a chance to make an impact in the upcoming NBA season.
As Isaiah Thomas gears up for this crucial workout, the basketball community watches closely, rooting for a player whose heart and dedication have never wavered, even in the face of daunting challenges. Whether this leads to a roster spot or serves as another step in his remarkable journey, Thomas’ resolve continues to inspire.