Isaiah Thomas, a familiar face to Sacramento Kings fans, is making his way back to the city where his NBA journey began. The 35-year-old guard is set to participate in a workout with current Kings players, hoping to reignite his career in the league.
Thomas' connection to Sacramento runs deep; he was drafted with the No. 60 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and quickly became a fan favorite with his tenacity and scoring ability. However, his time with the Kings came to an end in the 2014 offseason via a sign-and-trade, marking the beginning of a journeyman phase in his career.
In a career that has seen its fair share of ups and downs, Thomas had a remarkable season with the Boston Celtics, finishing fifth in MVP voting in 2017. Yet, a persistent hip injury has plagued him in recent years, restricting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since his MVP-caliber year.
Despite these setbacks, Thomas remains determined to prolong his professional career. "I want to play a year or two more," he stated. This offseason, he has been actively seeking opportunities, participating in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month and now vying for a spot with the Kings. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," Thomas shared, reflecting his unwavering optimism and dedication to the game.
Last season saw Thomas making brief appearances with the Phoenix Suns, where he played six games, and with the Salt Lake City Stars of the G League for four games. This intermittent play underscores the tough path he has navigated due to his injury troubles.
Other Prospects in the Mix
Thomas won't be alone in the upcoming Kings workout. Joining him are guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley.
Walker IV is coming off a compelling season with the Brooklyn Nets. Known for his shooting prowess, he posted an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes, showcasing his potential as a valuable offensive asset.
Toscano-Anderson, a versatile forward, had a short stint with the Kings last season, playing in 11 games before concluding the season with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. His experience with the Kings could provide an edge as he looks to secure a more permanent role in Sacramento.
Meanwhile, Bradley spent the previous season with the Texas Legends in the G League. As a big man, his presence in the workout signals the Kings' intention to explore all potential avenues for bolstering their frontcourt depth.
The Road Ahead
For Isaiah Thomas, the forthcoming workout represents more than just a homecoming; it is a crucial juncture in his quest to return to the NBA spotlight. As he eyes a roster spot, the Kings' assessment will likely consider his veteran experience alongside his current physical form and ability to contribute consistently on the court.
Alongside the younger prospects, Thomas' high basketball IQ and leadership could prove to be invaluable, both on and off the court. Whether this workout will mark the beginning of a new chapter in his storied career remains to be seen, but what is clear is that Isaiah Thomas still has the fire and determination to compete at the highest level of the sport.
The Kings, with an eye on the future and a pivotal offseason ahead, will weigh their options carefully. This workout session promises to be an intriguing event, where past, present, and future potential collide on the hardwood.