It was always Isaiah Thomas’ dream to suit up for the Los Angeles Lakers and that came true when the team traded for him, Channing Frye, and a first-round pick in February. The deal marked the end of a rocky, albeit brief, tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
He had some ups and downs early on with the Lakers, but did serve as a good mentor for the young players on the roster. Many teammates, as well as head coach Luke Walton, pointed out the impact that Thomas was having both on and off the court.
Unfortunately for Thomas, his ongoing hip issues returned and it was revealed that he would have to undergo arthroscopic surgery. On Thursday, the Lakers announced that the surgery was a success and Thomas’ expected recovery timetable is four months:
MEDICAL UPDATE: Isaiah Thomas had successful arthroscopic surgery to his right hip today.
Thomas will miss the remainder of the season. His expected recovery time is four months. pic.twitter.com/w8Gne6lvGT
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 29, 2018
Of course the timing on this for Thomas isn’t great as he is an unrestricted free agent who was hoping for a big payday this summer. He was an MVP candidate last season with the Boston Celtics, but rushed back from his hip injury this season and, unfortunately, is now paying the price.
But with that, the Lakers are reportedly interested in bringing Thomas back next season, though on what kind of deal remains to be seen.
Thomas won’t be a priority for the Lakers as superstars like LeBron James and Paul George are at the top of the list. Re-signing Julius Randle, who has really turned the corner this season will also be a major priority for the Lakers.
Depending on what happens with those big names, the Lakers would likely then begin to look at Thomas on what would probably be a short term deal. A four-month recovery would mean that he would be ready for training camp and the start of next season and for a fighter like Thomas, he will be looking to prove a lot of people wrong about what he still has left.
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