NBA: 3 teams that should pursue Isaiah Thomas in free agency
By Dalton Sell
A surgically repaired Isaiah Thomas could be an intriguing free-agent target this NBA offseason, and three specific teams could use his services.
At his peak in the 2016-17 NBA season, Isaiah Thomas was one of the league’s most dynamic scorers. Pouring in 28.9 points per game while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 37.9 percent from behind the arc, Thomas was a surefire MVP candidate.
However, a hip injury derailed the guard’s career, and he has now played on five teams in the past four seasons. I.T. began the season with the Washington Wizards, who had a vacancy at the point guard position with John Wall out, making the most of the opportunity. Averaging 12.2 points per game while shooting 41.3 percent from deep, Thomas was steadily proving he deserved a roster spot in the NBA.
Washington ultimately ended up trading the guard to the LA Clippers at the trade deadline, who immediately cut him. Thomas has remained unemployed since. Whether it be the injury history, the nonexistent presence on the defensive end, or whatever else, teams were not high on Thomas.
Over three years after his horrific hip injury, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the guard underwent a hip resurfacing procedure in May and feels rejuvenated. Thomas’ words:
"“There’s no more pain. I’ve got my full range of motion. For three years, I was trying to play the best players in the world on one leg. I needed help from my kids to put my socks on in the morning.” “In some ways, the time off because of COVID was a blessing in disguise for my career,” Thomas said. “It allowed me to take the time to get this procedure done, and get back physically to a level I need to be to compete in the league. I made the right decision to do this, and I’m anxious to show people I can contribute to a team again.”"
Whether those words entice teams to give the guard another shot in the NBA remains unknown, but several franchises could use his services. Thomas is not going to be the focal point of an offense, and certainly not a prolific force on defense, but he could be a serviceable bench piece if he is back to full health.
Here are three teams that should target Isaiah Thomas in free agency.