On Monday, Nov. 17, the Boston Celtics welcomed former MVP candidate and fan-favorite guard Isaiah Thomas to the Auerbach Center.
Thomas, a two-time All-Star during his time with the Celtics, is currently a free agent. He posted an image of the practice facility to his X account with the caption “back at the crib.”
The 5-foot-9 guard spent two and a half seasons with the Celtics between 2015 and 2018, before being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of the package for Kyrie Irving. Following the trade, Thomas struggled to recapture the production that saw him finish fifth in MVP voting during the 2016-17 season.
Now 36, Thomas is still looking for another stop in the NBA. He last suited up for the Phoenix Suns in the 2023-24 season, where he played in six games, averaging 1.3 points per outing. Given his age and the burst he lost following his hip injury, it’s not clear whether he’ll be given another shot at making an NBA roster.
Nevertheless, Celtics fans still love Thomas and are always excited when he’s back around the team. He was a key piece of Brad Stevens’ early tenure with the franchise and helped keep the roster competitive during the rebuilding years.
The Celtics Have An Open Roster Spot
Following Thomas’ post on social media, it’s inevitable that some sections of the fanbase will postulate a potential return for the former All-Star. After all, Boston has a young and inexperienced roster, so while Thomas would likely struggle to make an impact on the court, his presence in the locker room could be beneficial.
The Celtics currently have an open roster spot. Thomas would likely sign for the veteran minimum. Therefore, on paper, adding him to the roster is a viable option. Of course, Stevens, who is now the team’s President of Basketball Operations, may prefer to add another young prospect or an impactful veteran with that final spot.
Still, the notion of Thomas’ return has been a common talking point in recent seasons. As such, it makes sense that it could emerge once again.
The Celtics Should Preserve Thomas’ Legacy
Despite the clear draw to bring Thomas back, preserving his legacy would better serve the franchise. Bringing him back now, so far removed from his prime, would tarnish everything he achieved during his time with the franchise, where he remains a hero and beloved former player.
Sitting Thomas at the end of the bench and using him as a sort of victory cigar is unfair. This is a player who became “The King of the Fourth” and led the team to two deep postseason runs.
Still, if the front office and coaching staff believe Thomas has something to offer, then perhaps adding him to the rotation is the right call. But, for right now, his visit was likely nothing more than a quick hello to a former team and some friendly faces.
Of course, that won’t stop fans from speculating about a potential reunion.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Former MVP Candidate Posts Photo From Celtics’ Practice Facility appeared first on Heavy Sports.