In late August, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics came together for a blockbuster offseason trade. The Cavs, defenders of the Eastern Conference crown, sent All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving to Boston. In return, the Celtics delivered several assets, including point guard Isaiah Thomas (two-time All Star), Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, the Brooklyn Nets unprotected first round pick in next year’s draft, and the Miami Heat’s second round pick in 2020.
Thomas, now 28 years of age, joined newly-appointed Cavs general manager Koby Altman and head coach Tyronn Lue for an introductory press conference at Cleveland Clinic Courts. Amid the wide-ranging interview, Thomas was asked how he felt about being traded. His response was nothing short of honest.
“It caught me off guard, but it also woke me up. It made me realize that this is a business.”
“I’m just taking it day by day with the transition. From a basketball standpoint, it’s gonna be the same.”
“I’m happy to be here.”
Last season, Thomas turned in some of the best statistical numbers of his career. In his 76 games played for the Celtics during their 2016-17 campaign, the former Washington Husky standout averaged a career-high 28.9 points on 46 percent shooting from the field (career-high), 5.9 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and just under one steal (.9) in 33.8 minutes per contest.
Being traded can be a difficult endeavor for any player. However, it sounds like Isaiah is happy and focused on the task at hand.