Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings Workout
Isaiah Thomas, the 35-year-old point guard, is set to make a return to Sacramento for a workout with the Kings’ players. This marks a full-circle moment for Thomas, who began his NBA career with the Kings after being drafted with the No. 60 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. His tenure in Sacramento originally ended with a sign-and-trade deal during the 2014 offseason, but his journey through the league has been anything but ordinary since then.
Last season, Thomas had limited stints with both the Phoenix Suns, where he played six games, and the G League's Salt Lake City Stars, playing just four games there. Despite the difficulties, his determination to continue his NBA career remains strong. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas said, expressing his ongoing passion for the game. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity."
In addition to his early career connection with the Kings, Thomas has notable highs and lows throughout his NBA journey. He finished fifth in MVP voting in 2017 during his time with the Boston Celtics, a testament to his talent and impact on the court. Unfortunately, a lingering hip injury has plagued him since then, limiting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017.
Thomas’ journey has also included recent participation in off-season workouts, notably with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month. His continuous drive and effort to get back into the NBA spotlight illustrate his tenacity and commitment to the sport.
This upcoming workout with the Kings won't just signify a potential comeback for Thomas but will also feature other talented players vying for attention. The session will include guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. This mix of experience and emerging talent makes for an exciting blend of players looking to make their mark.
Lonnie Walker IV, having had a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, has shown his prowess by shooting an impressive 38.4% from beyond the arc and averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His performance has made him a player to watch as he seeks to solidify his position in the league.
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, brings versatility and energy to the workout. His stint in the G League has kept him game-ready and eager to make a stronger impression at the NBA level.
Tony Bradley, meanwhile, spent last season with the G League's Texas Legends. His experience and skills as a big man will be carefully scrutinized during the workout, as teams always have a keen interest in players who can strengthen their presence in the paint.
For Isaiah Thomas, this workout represents not just a return to his roots but a possible new chapter in his storied career. His journey from being the last pick of the 2011 draft to an MVP candidate and now a veteran fighting to extend his career is a remarkable narrative of perseverance and passion. As Thomas said, he is "waiting for an opportunity," and this workout in Sacramento could very well be the pivotal moment he’s been striving towards.