In a move that will certainly intrigue Sacramento Kings fans, Isaiah Thomas is set to return to where it all began. The 35-year-old guard will be back in Sacramento for a workout with the Kings’ players, looking to reignite a career that has seen incredible highs and challenging lows.
A Long-Awaited Return
Drafted with the No. 60 pick in 2011, Thomas commenced his NBA journey with the Kings. His tenure with the team concluded in the 2014 offseason when he was traded in a sign-and-trade deal. Fast forward to today, and Thomas is back in familiar territory, determined to showcase his skills once more. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas has stated, expressing his ongoing passion for the game.
A Career of Ups and Downs
Thomas, who finished fifth in MVP voting during an outstanding 2017 season with the Boston Celtics, has faced significant hurdles in recent years, primarily due to a hip injury. This injury has unfortunately restricted him to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017. Last season saw him playing six games for the Phoenix Suns and another four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. The perseverance Thomas has shown in overcoming these obstacles is undeniably commendable.
Continued Pursuit of NBA Opportunities
The veteran guard remains undeterred in his pursuit of an NBA return. Just last month, Thomas participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he revealed, underlining his patient but persistent approach.
A Diverse Workout Group
Thomas won’t be the only player under the microscope during this workout session. Joining him are guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. Each of these players brings their own compelling narratives and stats.
Walker IV enjoyed a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, shooting an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His shooting prowess will be closely watched by the Kings' coaching staff.
Toscano-Anderson, who played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing the year with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, offers valuable versatility and experience.
Meanwhile, Bradley spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends, continuing to refine his game and remain prepared for another shot at the NBA.
The Road Ahead
For Isaiah Thomas, this workout with the Kings represents yet another chapter in his resilient career. Despite the setbacks and the roadblocks, his determination to extend his NBA journey remains as strong as ever. Surrounded by fellow hopefuls like Walker IV, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley, this session will be a melting pot of talent and ambition.
Sacramento fans will no doubt keep a close eye on Thomas's performance. Whether he dons the Kings jersey once more or takes his talents elsewhere, one thing is certain: Isaiah Thomas's story is far from over.