Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings Workout
Isaiah Thomas, the tenacious guard known for his remarkable stint with the Boston Celtics, is heading back to where it all began. Now 35 years old, Thomas is set to return to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings’ players, once again donning the jersey of the team that kickstarted his NBA journey.
Drafted with the No. 60 overall pick in 2011, Thomas quickly proved himself to be a valuable asset for the Kings. His tenure in Sacramento, however, came to an end in the 2014 offseason with a sign-and-trade deal. Despite his relatively short time with the team, Thomas left a lasting impression, showcasing his skill and determination on the court.
In recent years, Thomas has faced significant challenges. A hip injury has plagued the veteran guard, limiting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017. Yet, his passion for the game remains undiminished. During his prime in 2017, Thomas finished fifth in MVP voting while with the Celtics, highlighting just how impactful he could be when fully healthy.
Last season, Thomas played six games for the Phoenix Suns and four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, as he continued his quest to find a stable spot in the league. Despite the setbacks, Thomas participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport.
"I want to play a year or two more," Thomas said, expressing his determination to extend his career. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity."
The Kings' workout session, which Thomas will be a part of, also includes guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. This collective effort underscores Sacramento's intent to explore various options and strengthen its roster for the upcoming season.
Lonnie Walker IV, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, shot an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His performance has made him a promising prospect who could potentially thrive in Sacramento’s system.
Juan Toscano-Anderson, who played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, will look to prove his mettle and secure a more permanent role with the team. His versatility on the court could provide the Kings with additional flexibility in their rotations.
Tony Bradley, meanwhile, spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends. The big man’s experience and presence in the paint could offer the Kings a solid option for their frontcourt rotation.
As Thomas gears up for this pivotal workout, he carries with him a wealth of experience and a resilient spirit. While the journey back to the NBA’s forefront has been arduous, his unyielding drive and love for the game continue to fuel his ambitions. Whether or not this opportunity with the Kings turns into something more permanent, Thomas’ story remains a testament to perseverance and passion.