Isaiah Thomas Set to Return to Sacramento for Kings Workout
Isaiah Thomas is heading back to where it all began. The 35-year-old guard, who started his NBA journey with the Sacramento Kings after being drafted with the 60th pick in 2011, is set to return to Sacramento for a workout with the team’s players. This development marks another chapter in Thomas’ resilient career, which has seen its fair share of ups and downs.
Since his tenure with the Kings ended in 2014 following a sign-and-trade, Thomas has journeyed through various teams. Last season, he played six games with the Phoenix Suns and spent time in the G League with the Salt Lake City Stars. Despite these limited appearances, Thomas remains determined to extend his career. "I want to play a year or two more," he stated, signaling his intention to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.
Thomas' career highlight came in 2017 during his time with the Boston Celtics, where he finished fifth in MVP voting. However, his performance has been hampered by a hip injury, which has restricted him to fewer than 40 games in any season since then. Despite these setbacks, Thomas' passion for the game remains undiminished. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he mentioned, showcasing his unwavering dedication.
Accompanying Thomas in the Kings' upcoming workout will be guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. Each of these players has their own story to tell, adding layers of intrigue to the workout session.
Walker IV, who had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, is known for his sharp shooting and scoring ability. Last season, he shot 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His performance has certainly caught the eye, making him a valuable asset in any workout scenario.
Meanwhile, Toscano-Anderson brings his own set of experiences. He played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing his season with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. His tenacity and versatility make him a noteworthy participant in the workout.
Bradley, who spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends, also joins the group. His presence adds depth to the big man rotation and showcases the caliber of talent that will be on display during the workout.
Thomas' return to Sacramento carries a sense of nostalgia and hope. It was with the Kings that he first made his mark in the league, and the potential for a homecoming story is tantalizing. Observers will be keen to see if the workout leads to a more substantial opportunity for the veteran guard.
The collective mix of talent in the workout emphasizes the Kings' intent to assess and possibly integrate experienced players with established credentials. As Thomas looks to continue his storied career, the workout in Sacramento could be the next step in his journey, one that has already left an indelible mark on the league.