Isaiah Thomas is making a return to familiar territory, as he heads back to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings’ players. The 35-year-old veteran, who initiated his illustrious NBA journey with the Kings as the No. 60 pick in the 2011 draft, is aiming for another shot at the league.
"I want to play a year or two more," Thomas remarked, reflecting his undying passion for the game despite the hurdles he has faced. His recent endeavors included participating in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month, indicating his continued efforts to secure a spot on an NBA roster.
A Storied Career Filled with Highs and Lows
Thomas’ tenure with the Kings concluded in the 2014 offseason via a sign-and-trade deal, but his NBA journey did not stall there. Arguably, his peak came during his time with the Boston Celtics in 2017, when he finished fifth in MVP voting. However, a lingering hip injury has since constrained his appearances, limiting him to under 40 games in any season from 2017 onwards.
"I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he shared, encapsulating the uncertainty and hope that define the twilight of many professional athletes' careers.
Recent Stints and Current Endeavors
Last season, Thomas played six games for the Phoenix Suns and had a brief tenure with the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, featuring in four games. These stints, though short, highlighted his readiness to contribute whenever called upon. Now, with the Kings extending an invitation to their upcoming workout session, Thomas is poised to demonstrate that his skill set remains invaluable.
Other Notable Participants
Thomas will not be alone in this workout as the Kings have also brought in a mix of potential talents. Guard Lonnie Walker IV, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, will also be part of the session. Walker shot an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc while averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes, showcasing his offensive prowess.
Forward Juan Toscano-Anderson is returning for a workout as well. Toscano-Anderson played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before transitioning to the G League’s Mexico City Capitanes. His versatility and defensive capabilities are well-documented, making his inclusion in the workout noteworthy.
Additionally, big man Tony Bradley, who spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends, adds to the diverse skill set in the upcoming session. Bradley’s presence under the rim and ability to provide crucial minutes will be closely watched.
A Look to the Future
As Isaiah Thomas looks to extend his career by a couple of years, his journey back to Sacramento serves as a testament to his resilience and love for the game. His story, interwoven with highs like the MVP candidacy and lows such as the persistent hip injury, continues to inspire many aspiring basketball players. The upcoming workout with the Kings players will be pivotal, not only for Thomas but also for the other aspirants involved.
Whether or not Thomas secures a roster spot, his pursuit of the game, mirrored by his words and actions, underscores the relentless drive of an athlete unwilling to let go of his dreams. For the Kings, having a mix of experienced players and emerging talents in these workouts could provide a strategic edge as they look to fortify their roster ahead of the new season.