The biggest trade deadline news this year is arguably the shakeup in Cleveland where the Cavaliers moved a handful of their players — most prominent of which is Isaiah Thomas, who has been shipped to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Thomas, along with Channing Frye and a protected first-round pick were traded to the Lakers in exchange for Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr. — two players who can address the Cavs' lack of energy.

While Thomas' stint for the Cavs was uneventful, marred by chemistry issues and internal turmoil even, the two-time All-Star point guard still sent out a tweet of gratitude toward the organization.

“It was only 15 games, but still an experience that I’m grateful for. Thank you to the Cleveland Cavaliers organization for granting me the opportunity to rock the wine and gold this season. God bless and see you on the other side.”

Article Continues Below
More NBA News
LA Clippers guard Lou Williams (23) celebrates after making a three point basket against the Denver Nuggets during the second half of game three of the second round of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena.
Lou Williams sets record straight on Magic City strip club rumors during NBA bubbleZachary Howell ·
Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) reacts after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half during game three of the 2025 NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Insider reveals Pacers’ Myles Turner free agency destinations after NBA FinalsZachary Howell ·
Why Draymond Green wants Metta World Peace to get Knicks coaching job
Why Draymond Green wants Metta World Peace to get Knicks coaching jobJulian Ojeda ·
Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) dunks against the Indiana Pacers during the first half during game three of the 2025 NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Thunder’s Isaiah Hartenstein downplays Pacers’ home-court advantageJosue Pavon ·
Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) looks to pass the ball against the USC Trojans during the second half at Jersey Mike's Arena. 76ers
Pelicans rumors: New Orleans targeting specific star draft prospect with trade upZachary Howell ·
New Orleans Pelicans forward Herbert Jones (2) against the LA Clippers on a free throw attempt during the first half at Smoothie King Center.
NBA rumors: Pelicans insider calls out ‘BS’ Herb Jones-to-76ers trade speculationJulian Ojeda ·

Coming off seven months of layoff as he recovered from a nagging hip injury, Thomas never got his legs back as a member of the Cavs. His defensive liability was further exposed as the team churned out excruciating numbers, especially whenever he took the floor.

In 15 games played for the Cavs, Thomas averaged 14.7 points and 4.5 assists per game on career-worst percentages from the field and 3-point distance. It didn't take long before Cleveland fans, who patiently waited for his return, turned on him for his glaring shortcomings.

Now with the Lakers, Thomas faces another uncertainty with regards to his role. Will he be a starter? Lonzo Ball is by far the safer and better choice for Luke Walton. But Thomas appears to be adamant in not coming off the bench for his new team, even saying that he'd rather seek a buyout than accept a reserve role.

This has been a season of issues for the 5-foot-9 point guard, who is only one year removed from being an MVP contender. He now faces uncertainty which doesn't play well for him as he is about to enter unrestricted free agency in the summer.