The trend of one-year deals has become increasingly popular, as many free agents have chosen to bet on themselves in hopes to cash in during a big 2019 offseason where the salary cap will get a generous expansion, allowing teams to make lucrative offers.
Isaiah Thomas was no exception, as the 5-foot-9 dynamo signed a one-year deal for the veteran's minimum with the Denver Nuggets and plans to thrive on a sixth man role in hopes to land a long-term contract next offseason, according to Alex Kennedy of HoopsHype.
Thomas was initially resistant to the idea during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers last season, but a cruel market has forced him to think things over and re-assess what is best for his career.
The 29-year-old is only a year removed from averaging 28.9 points per game with the Boston Celtics, but two hip surgeries within the last season have massively hurt his value after he averaged a combined 15.2 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.1 rebounds through a combined 32 games last season.
Now with Will Barton a starter at small forward, the Nuggets address their immediate need for a scoring punch off the bench with a starting-quality guard that can up points in a hurry.
If Thomas can get himself in the race for Sixth Man of the Year, his value can surely rise by next offseason — but he will be competing with a myriad of other players who've chosen this same route.
Follow Us
Subscribe