Michael Thomas is set to make his awaited return to the New Orleans Saints in Week 9 and he apparently had a conversation with a Hall of Fame wideout to prepare him for the rest of the year. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Randy Moss reached out to give Thomas advice about finishing strong in the second half of the season.

The league's reigning leading wide receiver is poised to return to the Saints as the team prepares for a rematch with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday Night Football. Thomas hasn't suited up for New Orleans since Week 1 due to a variety of reasons.

At first, Thomas missed a few weeks for the Saints due to a high-ankle sprain he suffered in Week 1. However, after he was expected to make his return in Week 5 versus the Los Angeles Chargers, Thomas got into an altercation with teammates in practice.

As a result, the Saints suspended him for one game and fined the amount of his game check. While he was nearing a return from his suspension, Thomas then sustained a hamstring injury that would prevent him from playing in recent weeks.

Amid his absence, there were rumors that New Orleans could trade Thomas for the right price. But with the rumors swirling, Sean Payton denied the legitimacy of them and the Saints didn't entertain offers for the All-Pro wide receiver.

Moss, who had issues earlier in his career, understands that it can be frustrating not being able to help your team. Therefore, ahead of New Orleans' much-anticipated matchup with the Buccaneers, Thomas is going to be playing with a chip on his shoulder.