Fans of the Cleveland Cavaliers have a lot to be excited about on Tuesday as they will finally see Isaiah Thomas make his much awaited debut for the team on the night.
After missing the first 36 games of the year, the two-time All-Star has been cleared to play since a hip injury during last season’s playoffs. Although he is expected to be an integral part of the Cavs, he may not see a lot of playing time yet and could be placed on a 20-22 minute restriction in his first game back, according to Shams Charania of The Vertical.
Given the amount of time he’s missed, it is very understandable that the Cavaliers are opting to slowly ease him back into game shape and will not risk him getting hurt again with a heavy workload immediately. Thomas’ skill set is very unique and the team knows that he will be a huge boost to their quest of winning their second title in three years. That said, it will be important for them to monitor his usage until he regains his old form.
Last season, the 28-year-old Washington product averaged impressive numbers of 28.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 5.9 assists for the Boston Celtics, leading them to a deep run in the postseason. If he can get close to the level he was at a year ago, the Cavs will have another weapon they can use to beat the other title favorites and Thomas’ addition will definitely make them an even more difficult team to beat.