The tragic news that Isaiah Thomas’ younger sister died in a car crash early Saturday leaves the Boston Celtics’ leader’s status uncertain.
It must be tough being Isaiah Thomas right now. The Boston Celtics secured the top seed in the East yet are still being written off. The apparent disrespect from around the league has gotten the Celtics’ attention. It is clearly occupying their leading scorer’s mind and helping his focus.
Just when you think things couldn’t get any worse, the sad news of his sister’s passing hit news wires. Thomas is no doubt devastated. As part of the Celtics family it has no doubt affected the organization as a whole as well. He is their leader, and where he goes, they follow.
Thomas’ availability is as yet uncertain but only the most selfish of people would begrudge him for sitting out. He may be a global star adored by millions but he is still human. And he is hurting right now. He had already shut down social media to focus on the playoffs but there’s no escaping this stark reality. Our prayers go out to the entire Thomas family.
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The Boston Celtics rose to the top of the East through stellar team play. However, it is clear to all observers that Isaiah Thomas is the primary reason for their rise. He led the team in points (28.9), assists (5.9), PER (26.5) and win shares (12.5), almost double the closest teammate. He is their best player. Plain and simple.
Without Thomas in the lineup this season Boston racked up a 2-4 record. The two wins against the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets. The losses against the Toronto Raptors, Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers. That is not a very encouraging run and might be the Boston Celtics reality depending on Thomas’ decision.
Ironically, the last time the Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics met in the first round, Boston was without the injured Kevin Garnett. It led to one of the more memorable series of all time in the 2009 playoffs. Four of the seven games went into overtime, featuring one double overtime and one triple. An Isaiah Thomas absence might throw up similar results.
IT is expected to play but everyone grieves differently. Basketball might be the distraction he needs from this family tragedy. If he can’t get into the game or opts to take time out, then someone needs to step up for Boston. The team already fired up by the naysayers will need an extra gear for their diminutive leader. The gaping hole left by Thomas – the type he exploits on offense – is just too huge to ignore.
Al Horford is the player that comes to mind, even though he was fourth leading scorer for Boston. He’s the team’s only other All-Star and has the most playoffs experience. He will have a very pesky Robin Lopez to contend with but is the superior player. Horford’s passing and ability on the perimeter opens the game up for the Boston Celtics wings.
Avery Bradley‘s usual consistency will be called upon. Jae Crowder‘s outside stroke is crucial. Marcus Smart will need to be true to his name on shot selection. Kelly Olynyk‘s inside-outside duality is an important bench boost. Hopefully, rookie Jaylen Brown isn’t overwhelmed by the occasion and brings his athleticism to the court. Boston really just needs to play their game. Keep the ball moving and take good shots and they should be good.
Defense is where the Celtics especially need to thrive. Jimmy Butler has a point to prove as a capable franchise player. He was looking forward to guarding Thomas but now can focus more on offense. Dwayne Wade is a year older but still a viable postseason disruptor. He cannot be ignored. Rajon Rondo is no stranger to TD Garden and national television is his stage. The Boston Celtics are expecting to see him at his deadliest.
So the absence of Thomas – possibly in mind and body – leaves the Celtics in a precarious position. However, the source of his disconnect will be yet another driver for the oft-doubted Celtics. The challenge is channeling it in the right direction. The Boston Celtics are a solid, capable, well-balanced team. If they come together like they can, trusting each other as they have, they should be alright.
Running the offense through Horford, Bradley or Smart on any given night can yield results. Such is the depth of the Boston Celtics and the acumen of coach Brad Stevens. Chyna Thomas’ death is a painful loss but all is not lost. Isaiah Thomas can power through this and so can his Boston Celtics.
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There is no I in team but there’s one in IT. And “I will not lose for IT” should be the mindset of every Boston Celtics player moving forward. When the Celtics line up tonight, one can only hope Thomas is in uniform too. Either way, our hearts are with our fearless leader.
Rest in Peace Chyna Thomas.