Isaiah Thomas, known for his indomitable spirit and resilient career in the NBA, is gearing up to return to where it all began. At 35 years old, the seasoned point guard will participate in a workout with the Sacramento Kings' players, rekindling memories of his early days in the league.
The two-time NBA All-Star started his professional journey with the Kings after being picked last in the 2011 draft. Despite the modest expectations often associated with a No. 60 pick, Thomas quickly made a name for himself. However, his initial stint in Sacramento concluded in the 2014 offseason with a sign-and-trade deal.
Thomas has experienced a whirlwind career characterized by both soaring highs and challenging lows. He had his crowning moment in 2017 while playing for the Boston Celtics, finishing fifth in MVP voting and proving that stature is not a limitation in a game often dominated by taller players. Yet, the star guard has faced significant hurdles since then, primarily due to a lingering hip injury that has kept him from playing more than 40 games in a season since 2017.
Last season was another testament to Thomas' determination and ongoing battle with injury. He played six games for the Phoenix Suns and spent additional time in the G League with the Salt Lake City Stars. Although his appearances were limited, his dedication remained evident. Thomas also participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month, indicating his desire to continue playing at a high level.
"I want to play a year or two more," Thomas expressed candidly. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity." His upcoming workout with the Kings symbolizes not only a potential new chapter for Thomas but a full-circle moment, bringing him back to the franchise where he first defied the odds.
The Kings' Vision and Companions in the Workout
The Sacramento Kings are not just focusing on Thomas. The workout will also include other talented players aiming to make an impact. Guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley will join Thomas in the session.
Lonnie Walker IV has shown significant promise, coming off a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets. Known for his sharpshooting ability, Walker hit 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His performance last season positions him as a player to watch during the Kings' workout.
Juan Toscano-Anderson is another intriguing prospect. He played 11 games for the Kings during the 2023-24 season before finishing the year with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. Toscano-Anderson's versatility and experience could prove to be valuable assets for any team looking to bolster its roster.
Big man Tony Bradley rounds out the group. Last season, Bradley suited up for the G League's Texas Legends. His performance and readiness for the NBA level will be closely observed during the workout.
A Glimpse Into the Future
As the Kings evaluate their options in this critical period, bringing in veterans like Isaiah Thomas shows a blend of respect for experience and hope for rejuvenated performance. While Thomas' past achievements and future aspirations form a compelling narrative, the inclusion of players like Walker, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley highlights Sacramento's commitment to exploring a mix of seasoned and emerging talents.
For Thomas, this workout is more than just another run on the hardwood. It is a statement of unresolved ambition and undying passion for the game. The possibility of him donning a Kings jersey once more is a storyline that any basketball aficionado would find irresistible.
As Thomas steps onto the court for the Kings' workout, he embodies the relentless pursuit of dreams, irrespective of age or past injuries. And for the Kings, welcoming back a former player with such a storied career could very well be the catalyst for an inspiring season ahead.