Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings Workout
Veteran guard Isaiah Thomas is set to return to Sacramento, where his illustrious NBA journey began over a decade ago. Now 35 years old, Thomas will participate in a workout with the Kings’ players, showcasing his enduring passion for the game and his desire to extend his career.
Thomas, drafted with the No. 60 pick by Sacramento in 2011, quickly made a name for himself with his incredible work ethic and scoring prowess. His initial tenure with the Kings concluded with a sign-and-trade deal in the offseason of 2014, but Thomas' impact in those early years still resonates with fans and the organization alike.
In recent seasons, Thomas has faced considerable challenges. Last year, he played six games for the Phoenix Suns and four games for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. A hip injury has significantly hampered his availability since his standout 2017 season with the Boston Celtics, a season that saw him finish fifth in MVP voting. Despite these setbacks, Thomas’ resolve remains unshaken.
"I want to play a year or two more," Thomas voiced with determination, underscoring his unwavering dedication to the sport. His commitment was further demonstrated by his participation in a recent workout with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas, persistently seeking opportunities to reignite his NBA career.
Joining Familiar Faces
The Kings' workout session will not only feature Thomas but also include a notable trio of players: guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley.
Walker IV comes into the workout after a strong showing with the Brooklyn Nets. Known for his sharpshooting, he recorded an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc while averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His performance has positioned him as a promising asset for the Kings to evaluate.
Meanwhile, Toscano-Anderson, who had a brief stint with the Kings in the 2023-24 season before finishing the year with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, offers versatility and experience. His familiarity with the Kings’ system could be an added advantage.
Completing the trio is Tony Bradley, who spent the last season with the G League's Texas Legends. Bradley brings a solid interior presence, which could complement the Kings' frontcourt dynamics effectively.
A Career Reflecting Resilience
Thomas' journey has been marked by resilience and an unwavering spirit. From being the last pick in the draft to becoming a legitimate NBA star, his career is a testament to what hard work and determination can achieve. His statement, "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," captures his optimistic outlook and readiness to seize any chance to contribute to a team.
The upcoming workout in Sacramento is more than just a reunion for Thomas—it is an earnest attempt to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. For the Kings, it represents an opportunity to bring back a familiar face with a proven track record of leadership and scoring ability.
As the Kings prepare for a pivotal offseason, the potential addition of seasoned players like Thomas, Walker IV, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley could play a significant role in shaping their roster for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching, hopeful that these workouts might just provide the spark necessary for a successful campaign ahead.