Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings Workout
Isaiah Thomas, a name that holds a special place in the hearts of Sacramento Kings fans, is set to return to California's capital for a workout with the team's players. Now 35 years old, Thomas' journey through the NBA has been both dynamic and challenging since he was drafted with the No. 60 pick in 2011 by the Kings.
Thomas began his NBA career with the Kings and quickly became a fan favorite with his scoring prowess and tenacious play, despite his diminutive 5'9" stature. He played for Sacramento until a sign-and-trade deal in the 2014 offseason sent him on a new trajectory. However, his career has been plagued by injuries, most notably a hip injury that has significantly limited his playing time to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017.
In his prime, Thomas reached the pinnacle of his career during his stint with the Boston Celtics, finishing fifth in MVP voting in 2017. His exceptional performance that season underscored his ability to compete at the highest level, despite the physical constraints that came later.
Over the last season, the veteran guard donned the jerseys of both the Phoenix Suns and the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, playing a combined total of ten games. His perseverance in the league, despite the hurdles, points to his unyielding spirit and love for the game. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas has openly stated, highlighting his vision to contribute to an NBA team once again.
His recent endeavors include participating in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month, signaling that his determination to return to form and impact an NBA roster remains steadfast. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," Thomas remarked. This upcoming workout with the Kings may well be that awaited opportunity.
The Kings' workout session won't just be about Thomas; it will also feature players who bring their own unique skills and experiences to the floor. Lonnie Walker IV, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, is one such player. Walker showcased his shooting prowess by hitting 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His offensive capabilities can be a significant asset in any guard rotation.
Additionally, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson is set to participate. Toscano-Anderson had a brief tenure with the Kings during the 2023-24 season before finishing the year with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. His versatility and experience in different competitive environments make him a valuable player to watch during the workout.
Rounding out this trio is big man Tony Bradley, who spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends. Bradley's presence in the paint and his experience at different levels of professional basketball add another layer of depth and potential to the workout session.
As Isaiah Thomas prepares to step onto the court with Sacramento's players, his return symbolizes not just a personal comeback but a reunion with a franchise and fanbase that have witnessed his growth from a late draft pick to an NBA All-Star. The Kings, amidst building their roster for the upcoming season, may find in Thomas the veteran leadership and scoring ability that can contribute to their goals.
For Thomas, this workout is more than just an audition; it is a testament to his undying passion for the sport and his commitment to returning to the level of play that once made him a household name in the NBA. The next chapter in his basketball journey remains to be written, but one thing is certain—Isaiah Thomas' story is far from over.