Isaiah Thomas to Return to Sacramento for Kings Workout
In a move that has Sacramento Kings fans buzzing with excitement, Isaiah Thomas is set to return to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings’ players. The 35-year-old guard is no stranger to the franchise, having started his NBA career with the Kings after being drafted as the No. 60 pick in 2011. His tenure in Sacramento ended with a sign-and-trade in the 2014 offseason, but it seems Thomas has unfinished business with the team.
Thomas' career has seen its share of highs and lows. In 2017, he finished fifth in MVP voting during a standout season with the Boston Celtics. However, a persistent hip injury has plagued him since then, limiting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017. Last season, Thomas played six games for the Phoenix Suns and appeared in four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. Adding to his list of endeavors, he participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas just last month.
Despite the setbacks, Thomas remains determined to extend his playing career. "I want to play a year or two more," he said. His optimism is palpable, as he continues to look for the right opportunity. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he added, underscoring his readiness to make a comeback.
Thomas will be joining a competitive workout environment, with other notable participants including Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. Walker IV had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, shooting an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. Toscano-Anderson has also had a journeyed career; he played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. Meanwhile, Bradley spent last season honing his skills with the G League's Texas Legends.
For the Kings, the decision to bring back Thomas for a workout seems to be a blend of strategic planning and a nod to a player who has deep ties to the organization. The Kings have seen various roster changes and are seemingly exploring all avenues to add depth and experience to their squad.
Thomas' return to Sacramento is more than just a professional stint; it’s a full-circle moment for the veteran guard. Whether or not it culminates in a roster spot remains to be seen, but this opportunity allows Thomas to demonstrate that he still has plenty to offer the sport. As he steps back onto the Kings’ court, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the former MVP contender can once again make his mark in the NBA.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Kings' workout unfolds and as Thomas, Walker IV, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley vie for their respective places in the league.