Isaiah Thomas, a veteran guard with a storied career, is making headlines once again as he returns to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings. Now 35, Thomas began his NBA journey with the Kings, having been drafted with the 60th pick in 2011. His initial stint in Sacramento was marked by promise and potential, culminating in a sign-and-trade deal in the 2014 offseason that saw him depart from the team.
Thomas' career has seen its share of highs and lows. Perhaps the pinnacle was his 2017 season with the Boston Celtics, where he finished fifth in MVP voting. However, a hip injury has since cast a long shadow over his career, limiting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since that standout year.
Despite these setbacks, Thomas is determined to continue his professional journey. "I want to play a year or two more," he stated, underscoring his dedication and love for the game. Last season, he made brief appearances with the Phoenix Suns, participating in six games, and had a short stint with the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, playing in four games.
In his quest to stay relevant in the highly competitive NBA landscape, Thomas also showcased his skills in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he revealed, hinting at his ongoing efforts to secure a spot on an NBA roster.
Star-Studded Workout
The Kings' upcoming workout session will feature not only Thomas but an impressive lineup of other notable players. Joining Thomas on the court will be guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley.
Walker IV, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, stands out with his impressive shooting stats. He converted 38.4% of his attempts from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes, showcasing his scoring prowess and efficiency.
Toscano-Anderson also brings a unique set of experiences, having played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season. He concluded the season playing for the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, adding a layer of international experience to his resume.
Bradley, on the other hand, spent his last season with the G League's Texas Legends. His presence in the workout indicates that the Kings are exploring a variety of talents and skill sets as they build their roster for the upcoming season.
For Thomas, this workout is more than just a chance to showcase his skills; it's a homecoming of sorts. Returning to Sacramento, where it all began for him, presents an emotional and professional milestone. Whether this workout will translate into a contract with the Kings or another team remains to be seen, but Thomas remains optimistic and driven.
The Kings, too, are navigating a transitional phase, looking to blend experienced players with emerging talents. The inclusion of proven veterans like Thomas and up-and-coming players like Walker IV and Toscano-Anderson indicates a strategic move to strengthen their roster depth.
As the new NBA season looms, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Thomas can secure a spot and reignite his career. His journey, marked by resilience and determination, continues to inspire many within the basketball community.
While the outcome of the Kings' workout session remains uncertain, the involvement of diverse and talented players ensures it will be a compelling event. Thomas’ desire to play "a year or two more" speaks volumes about his enduring passion for the game, and his relentless pursuit of opportunities serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment.