Veteran NBA guard Isaiah Thomas is making headlines once again as he prepares to return to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings' players. The 35-year-old point guard, who began his NBA career with the Kings after being the 60th pick in the 2011 draft, is set to showcase his skills alongside other prospective players.
A Storied Past with the Kings
Thomas' initial tenure with the Kings ended via a sign-and-trade deal during the 2014 offseason. Since then, his professional journey has been marked by both impressive performances and unfortunate setbacks. Notably, Thomas finished fifth in MVP voting in 2017, reflecting his impactful stint with the Boston Celtics. A hip injury, however, has severely limited his playtime, capping his appearances to fewer than 40 games in any single season since that remarkable year.
Despite the challenges, Thomas remains undeterred. "I want to play a year or two more," he expressed, signaling his enduring passion for the game. His recent efforts include playing six games for the Phoenix Suns last season and a brief spell with the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. Last month, he also participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas, displaying his relentless pursuit of another NBA opportunity.
Competing Talent
The Kings' workout session will also feature guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley, each bringing their unique skill sets to the table. Walker IV enjoyed a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, boasting a commendable 38.4% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc and an average of 20.1 points per 36 minutes. Such statistics highlight his scoring prowess and the potential impact he could bring to the Kings.
Meanwhile, Toscano-Anderson, who played 11 games for the Kings during the 2023-24 season before transitioning to the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, will be another focal point. Alongside him, Bradley, who spent the last season with the G League's Texas Legends, adds depth to the workout roster. This diverse mix of players illustrates the Kings' intent to explore various options in strengthening their squad.
A Veteran's Determination
Thomas remains optimistic about his future in the league. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he shared, underscoring his readiness to seize any chance that comes his way. His extensive experience, coupled with his resilient attitude, makes him a valuable asset for any team willing to take a chance on a seasoned veteran.
As he steps back onto the Kings' practice court, memories of his early days in Sacramento must flood back, adding a sentimental layer to this pivotal workout. The young guard who once defied expectations by making a significant impact despite being the last pick in the draft, now returns with a wealth of experience and wisdom, looking to extend his storied career.
Thomas’ determination and passion will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration not only to his peers but also to young aspirants who dream of making it big in the league. As he aims for one more shot at NBA glory, his journey stands as a testament to perseverance and the love of the game.