Isaiah Thomas’ NBA Return Dealt With Heartbreak via Suns HC Frank Vogel

The Phoenix Suns have added the 2 time all-star and 2016-17 MVP top-runner Isaiah Thomas to their roster. The 5’9 guard gets a short 10-day ticket to the league as the Suns try to avoid the Play-In. Currently, there is no solid timeline set for Thomas’ return to the court. Regardless, the fans are thrilled to witness the fourth-quarter specialist dribble the ball down the floor.

However, in a pre-game interview before the game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Suns head coach Frank Vogel pressed down his intentions with Isaiah; potentially numbing the excitement amongst fans. When asked about Thomas’ playing time and return, Vogel cleared that “He’s here for depth.” Moreover, he hints that Thomas is slated for little to no time on regular days, saying, “When we’re at full strength, he won’t be in rotation.”

However, Vogel doubled down on the franchise’s trust in Thomas, adding that he’ll be called upon during foul troubles (Devin Booker and Kevin Durant) and injuries. With 14 games left in their season, the Suns are 1 game ahead of the 8th spot in the conference. Thomas’ presence will add a veteran skillset to the roster, with ample experience of operating in crunch time situations.

Thomas is 20 months separated from the global league, potentially riveting a question about his conditioning. Regardless, Isiah Thomas’ 550 games in the NBA, Vogel resonates confidence in the guard’s preparedness, citing the common use of several plays across the league.

Isaiah Thomas’ recent basketball ventures

Thomas last played for the national league in the 2021-22 season through short stints for the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and the Charlotte Hornets. For the purple and gold, he averaged 9.3 points and 1.5 assists while playing nearly 25 minutes across 4 games. He played only 1 game for the Mavs, scoring 6 points and 4 assists (37.5% from the floor). He was then picked by the Hornets after a 3 month break, in hopes of making through the play-in.

With an improved efficiency, Isaiah Thomas averaged 8.3 points and 1.4 assists within just 12.9 minutes on the floor. He shot 43.3% from the floor and near 40% from the three during his 17 games with the Hornets.

Read More – 35YO Isaiah Thomas Recounts Major “Blessing in Disguise” With Suns After Ultimate 10-Year Challenge Moment

Despite being away from the NBA hardwood, Thomas has continued his pro-basketball journey. He played in the G-League during the ’21-22 season, posting 41.3 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.7 rebounds (3 games). Moreover, prior to his acquisition by the Suns, Thomas was playing for Salt Lake City Stars. He garnered 32.5 points and 5.3 assists across 4 games for the G-League team. The point guard’s veteran voice is well hailed by the Suns as they vie for a spot in the top six.