The Charlotte Hornets are 2-0 since signing Isaiah Thomas to a 10-day contract. No, Thomas hasn't played 40 minutes a game or anything like that, but he's been a key piece in the locker room. Everyone knows the importance of having veterans in this league. However, IT isn't just any ordinary veteran. He put his career on the line essentially for the Boston Celtics after his hip injuries. Since leaving Boston, he's had a few different stints with teams around the league, despite being healthy. Which was weird. Many thought a return to Boston would've been in the cards, including Thomas.
Prior to his matchup vs. Celtics on Wednesday, the Hornets guard had a few things to get off his chest before he clashes with his former organization, regarding his relationship with former Celtics head coach and now team president, Brad Stevens.
“I've tried to have conversations about that. I know there's been times where I can help in that locker room. I've felt there have been times where Brad could make a call and give me an opportunity. It's disappointing in a lot of ways because I love Boston. It's not even about playing, I can help without putting the ball in the basket.”
After pouring his heart and soul into the team, it made sense for a reunion to be in store. Thomas highlighted that Stevens felt like it could be a distraction to the coaching staff and players. Everyone in the arena wants to see IT suit up for home and away games. He is likely to be a fan favorite wherever he goes, including with the Hornets. However, that's not really any of his business, Thomas can't control what fans do or say. He knows he will go out and give 100 percent on the court and do whatever it takes to unify a locker room for the better.
Plus, Thomas had a message for players in sports that suffer injuries along the way.
“Take care of yourself first and foremost. If you can play, then go and try to play. But if you can't and it can hurt your future, go sit your ass down. Do what's best for you. I took a bullet, but you live and you learn.”
Nevertheless, the Hornets are happy to have Thomas on board. He doesn't have to play huge minutes with LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier manning both guard spots. Not to mention the minutes that are allocated to Cody Martin at either those spots, but Thomas said he has been in the ear of his young guns on the regular. So far, it seems like it's working perfectly for the Hornets.
Charlotte has their backs against the wall for the rest of the season as they try to secure a playoff spot. On Tuesday night, they have to face the Brooklyn Nets. Both the Nets and Hornets are trying to own sole possession of that eighth seed out East. Getting in that seven or eight spot will give a team two shots to secure a playoff spot, so it's crucial the Hornets secure a win here.
On the second end of the back-to-back, they face the Celtics in Spectrum Center. Whether Thomas plays or not, it's sure to be an emotional game for him. Still, he wants nothing more to win that game and help his team inch closer to a postseason berth.
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