Isaiah Thomas Gets Another Shot: Charlotte Hornets Sign Veteran Guard
Former All-Star Isaiah Thomas is getting another chance to prove himself in teh NBA. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Charlotte Hornets have signed the 33-year-old guard to a ten-day contract.
This season, Thomas has already seen limited action with both the Los Angeles lakers and the Dallas mavericks, appearing in a combined six games. Though, his recent explosive performances in the G-League have caught the attention of NBA teams.
representing the Denver Nuggets’ affiliate, the Grand Rapids Gold, Thomas dominated the competition, averaging an astonishing 41.3 points per game across three contests. He even shattered the G-League single-game scoring record this season, dropping 46 points against the Greensboro Swarm on an efficient 13-of-25 shooting from the field and 9-of-17 from three-point range, while also dishing out seven assists.
This marks Thomas’ tenth NBA team since being drafted 60th overall in 2011. His most successful stint came with the Boston celtics between 2015 and 2017, where he blossomed into an MVP candidate and earned a spot on the All-NBA Second Team in 2017. Unfortunately, a hip injury sustained during the playoffs that year hampered his career trajectory, and he hasn’t been able to recapture his previous form.
despite the setback, Thomas boasts remarkable career averages of 18.0 points and 4.9 assists over 533 games.
The Hornets, currently sitting at 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 30-33 record, are hoping Thomas can provide a much-needed spark. They have struggled recently, losing 11 of their last 13 games. The absence of forward Gordon Hayward, who is once again battling ankle issues, has been particularly detrimental.With the recent trade of Ish Smith to the Washington Wizards, the Hornets are thin at the guard position behind starters LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier. Rookie James Bouknight is also sidelined with an injury, further emphasizing the need for backcourt depth. Thomas’ scoring prowess and veteran experience could be valuable assets as the Hornets fight for a playoff spot.
Can Isaiah Thomas Reignite His NBA Career in Charlotte? A Conversation with Former NBA Champion Channing Frye
Isaiah Thomas is back in the NBA, signing a ten-day contract with the Charlotte Hornets. after dominating the G-League with the Denver Nuggets’ affiliate, the Grand Rapids Gold, Thomas averages a staggering 41.3 points per game across three contests, including shattering the G-League single-game scoring record with 46 points. This is his tenth NBA team as being drafted in 2011, and even though his career has been marred by injuries, it’s hard not to get excited about the prospect of seeing him back on the court.
To delve deeper into this story and its implications, we sat down with former NBA Champion and ESPN analyst channing Frye for a candid conversation.
Moderator: Channing, thanks for joining us. Isaiah thomas has seen his fair share of ups and downs in his career. What are your initial thoughts on his signing with the hornets?
Channing Frye: It’s great to see Isaiah get another opportunity. Look, the guy is a pure scorer. When he’s healthy and locked in, he can light it up like few others. Charlotte needs scoring punch, and Isaiah brings that in spades. The question is, can he sustain it?
Moderator: You hit the nail on the head. Thomas’s biggest obstacle has been injuries. How much do you think his G-League performances indicate a return to form?
Channing Frye: It’s certainly encouraging. Dominating the G-League is one thing, but translating that to the NBA is a different beast. The pace is faster, the competition is tougher, and defenses are more complex.It’s a big jump. But the talent is still there,and if he’s healthy,he can definitely contribute.
Moderator: The Hornets are clearly looking for a spark.They’ve lost 11 of their last 13 games, and their guard depth is thin with Ish smith traded and injuries piling up. Do you think Thomas can be the missing piece to get them back on track?
Channing Frye: it’s a long shot, but they don’t have much to lose by giving him a chance. He can be a spark plug off the bench, a dynamic scorer who can create his own shot. But it’s not just about scoring. He’s a veteran who’s been through a lot. He can bring leadership and experience to a young team that needs it.
Moderator: Let’s talk about his time with the Celtics. Do you think those prime years are behind him?
Channing Frye: That’s a tough one. He was phenomenal in Boston, an MVP candidate. The hip injury obviously derailed his career. Earlier in his career, he was fast and explosive, able to penetrate and finish at the rim. Now, he’s relying more on his jump shot. He’s still a very good shooter,but he’s not the same athlete he once was.
Moderator: Some people might say that signing a player past his prime is a gamble.What’s your take?
Channing Frye: It’s always a gamble, but it can pay off big time. Look at what Jamal Crawford did for so many years. He was a veteran presence who could still score in bunches. Isaiah has that potential. If he can stay healthy and embrace a role off the bench,he can be a valuable asset for the Hornets,even if it’s not the same Isaiah of old.
Moderator: So,you think this is a good move for both sides?
Channing Frye:
I do. Isaiah gets another chance to prove himself in the NBA, and the Hornets get a talented scorer who could be the spark they need. It’s a win-win situation, but it ultimately depends on Isaiah staying healthy and recapturing that scoring magic.
We want to here from you! What do you think of Isaiah Thomas’s chances with the Hornets? Can he revitalize his career in Charlotte? Share your thoughts in the comments below!