While it’s unclear whether or not he’ll be able to play on Jan. 3 against the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Isaiah Thomas says he’s expecting a positive reception from his former team.
As most hoops fans know, Thomas, now 28 years of age, has been recovering from a hip injury he sustained in last season’s Eastern Conference Playoffs. If he is indeed cleared to play against the Celtics, the two-time All Star will likely be on a minutes restriction.
“It will be good,” Thomas told reporters after Friday’s practice session in California. “If I’m able to play, it’s gonna be a really special game for me. It’s gonna be emotional. I gave my heart to that city, and they showed genuine love back. That’s how we feel about each other. If I am able to play in that game, it’ll be a good one.”
It’s clear that Thomas is close to making his Cavs debut. In fact, he asked to play against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night, but the team denied his request.
“I tried to do that in Sac and it didn’t work,” Thomas said with a laugh. “I tried (to play) in Sac, but they shut me down. I was upset about it, but they’re looking out for what’s best for my career. I can’t thank them enough for putting me in that position. Anybody else would probably just be like, ‘If you feel ready, just go out there.’ Hopefully, I can get out there soon.”
Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue has already stated that Thomas will not play in back-to-back sets right away, and the crafty ball-handler will participate in a team scrimmage on Jan. 1.
“That slow grind,” as Thomas says, seems to be nearing an end. What a great day it will be when I.T. is able to take the floor with his new teammates.
