Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings Workout
As the off-season progresses, the Sacramento Kings are preparing for a significant workout, one that will see the return of a familiar face. Isaiah Thomas, who began his NBA journey with the Kings, is set to join Sacramento for a workout session alongside some promising talents. At 35 years old, Thomas is eager to continue his professional basketball career, stating, "I want to play a year or two more." His return to Sacramento stirs memories of his time with the team and his journey through the league.
A Homecoming of Sorts
Isaiah Thomas' journey in the NBA started when the Kings drafted him with the No. 60 pick in 2011. His time in Sacramento was marked by his relentless energy and ability to defy expectations. Thomas’ tenure with the Kings ended in the 2014 offseason with a sign-and-trade deal, but his impact on the team and its fans lingered long after his departure.
In more recent years, Thomas has faced significant challenges, particularly due to a hip injury that has plagued him since 2017. This injury has limited him to fewer than 40 games in any season since then. Last season, he played six games for the Phoenix Suns and four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, still showcasing the skills that made him a notable player in the league.
The Kings’ Star-Studded Workout
The workout in Sacramento will not only feature Isaiah Thomas but also include other impactful players. Guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley are also set to participate. Each of these players brings unique skills and experience to the table.
Lonnie Walker IV enjoyed a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, where he exhibited his scoring prowess. Walker shot 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes, making him a valuable asset in any team's backcourt.
Juan Toscano-Anderson also brings considerable experience, having played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing the season with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. Toscano-Anderson's versatility and defensive prowess are well-regarded, and he will no doubt aim to make an impression during the workout.
Tony Bradley, on the other hand, spent the last season with the G League's Texas Legends. Known for his size and rebounding ability, Bradley will add depth and competition among the big men during this training session.
A Prospective Future
For Isaiah Thomas, this workout represents an opportunity to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," Thomas said, expressing his readiness and determination to seize this chance. His history of overcoming obstacles and his journey through various teams indicate a player who is not easily deterred.
Among the trio of Walker, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley, the Kings have assembled a diverse group of talent. This workout could offer the team valuable insights as they strategize for the upcoming season. Thomas' presence adds a layer of intrigue, considering his history with the franchise and his demonstrated ability to lead and inspire both on and off the court.
As the NBA off-season continues, the Kings' decision to conduct this workout featuring Isaiah Thomas and other talents signifies their commitment to assessing all available options. For Isaiah Thomas, it is another chapter in a storied career—one that has seen both triumph and adversity, and one that continues to inspire hope and perseverance.