Any Isaiah Thomas comeback news will always result in Hardwood Houdini asking the following question: Is it time for IT to return to the Boston Celtics?
His latest return will see him work his way through the NBA G-League, but with his former head coach–and the man that helped turn him into an MVP candidate from a sixth man–Brad Stevens in charge, there’s more smoke than there truly ever was with ex-GM Danny Ainge in charge.
Stevens doesn’t have the responsibility of placating his former Boston Celtics MVP by backing up the brinks truck. That was the prior front office’s responsibility, and they answered that with a trade to Cleveland.
As Shams Charania is reporting, Thomas’ first big showcase opportunity will be coming next week:
Two-time All-Star Isaiah Thomas has signed in the NBA G League and will play in the G League Showcase (Dec. 19-22) in Las Vegas, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Thomas is on the NBA comeback trail.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 11, 2021
Signing Thomas coming off of a monster performance is the dream scenario for most Boston Celtics fans. At least those that share the Houdini’s view on the situation.
Thomas has been leading the USA Basketball secondary team, and the former Cs star has been teaming with current Maine Celtic Luke Kornet in doing so.
If it takes a stint with Scott Morrison in New England before making the big leagues to play for first-year head coach Ime Udoka, so be it. We will take any path necessary.
But when it comes to redemption stories, Thomas’ could intertwine with the 2021-22 Celtics’. Boston needs a spark and IT needs a better home than the New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards and (especially) the Denver Nuggets were in the prior three seasons ahead of this one.
With the entire 2021-22 schedule for the NBA representing redemption from empty arenas and lost revenue for the league last year, the time is now for the return for the ages at the TD Garden.