Isaiah Thomas (basketball)

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{{Infobox basketball biography

| name = Isaiah Thomas

| image = Isaiah Thomas free throw (cropped).jpg

| image_size =

| caption = Thomas with the Washington Wizards in 2020

| position = Point guard

| height_ft = 5

| height_in = 9

| height_footnote = He was measured at 5 ft 8 3/4" without shoes and 5 ft 10 1/4" with shoes at the 2011 NBA Draft Combine. {{cite web|title=Draft Combine Anthro, 2011–12|url=https://stats.nba.com/draft/combine-anthro/#!?SeasonYear=2011-12|website=NBA.com|access-date=September 9, 2018}}

| weight_lb = 185

| league = NBA G League

| team = Salt Lake City Stars

| number = 1

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1989|2|7}}

| birth_place = Tacoma, Washington, U.S.

| high_school =

| college = Washington (2008–2011)

| draft_year = 2011

| draft_round = 2

| draft_pick = 60

| draft_team = Sacramento Kings

| career_start = 2011

| career_end =

| years1 = {{nbay|2011|start}}–{{nbay|2013|end}}

| team1 = Sacramento Kings

| years2 = {{nbay|2014|full=y}}

| team2 = Phoenix Suns

| years3 = {{nbay|2014|end}}–{{nbay|2016|end}}

| team3 = Boston Celtics

| years4 = {{nbay|2017|full=y}}

| team4 = Cleveland Cavaliers

| years5 = {{nbay|2017|end}}

| team5 = Los Angeles Lakers

| years6 = {{nbay|2018|full=y}}

| team6 = Denver Nuggets

| years7 = {{nbay|2019|full=y}}

| team7 = Washington Wizards

| years8 = {{nbay|2020|end}}

| team8 = New Orleans Pelicans

| years9 = 2021

| team9 = Grand Rapids Gold

| years10 = {{nbay|2021|start}}

| team10 = Los Angeles Lakers

| years11 = {{nbay|2021|full=y}}

| team11 = Dallas Mavericks

| years12 = 2022

| team12 = Grand Rapids Gold

| years13 = {{nbay|2021|end}}

| team13 = Charlotte Hornets

| years14 = 2024

| team14 = Salt Lake City Stars

| years15 = {{nbay|2023|end}}

| team15 = Phoenix Suns

| years16 = 2025–present

| team16 = Salt Lake City Stars

| highlights =

2× NBA All-Star ({{nasg|2016}}, {{nasg|2017}})
All-NBA Second Team ({{nbay|2016|end}})
NBA All-Rookie Second Team ({{nbay|2011|end}})
AP honorable mention All-American (2011)
2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2010, 2011)
Second-team All-Pac-10 (2009)
2× Pac-10 tournament MVP (2010, 2011)
Pac-10 Freshman of the Year (2009)
No. 2 retired by Washington Huskies

}}

Isaiah Jamar Thomas (born February 7, 1989) is an American professional basketball player for the Salt Lake City Stars of the NBA G League. He most notably played with the Boston Celtics from 2015 through 2017, when he was a two-time NBA All-Star and named second-team All-NBA.

The {{convert|5|ft|9|in|adj=on}} point guard played three years of college basketball for the Washington Huskies and was a three-time all-conference selection in the Pac-10. After electing to forgo his senior year of college, Thomas was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the final pick in the 2011 NBA draft. He spent three seasons with the Kings before joining the Phoenix Suns in 2014. Thomas was traded to Boston in February 2015. In the 2016–17 season, he led the Celtics to the first seed of the Eastern Conference, had the third-highest points-per-game average in the league, and finished fifth in MVP voting.

After injuring his right hip during the 2016–17 season, Thomas was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in August 2017. Over the next several seasons, his hip injury significantly hampered his play. Thomas went on to play for the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks, Charlotte Hornets, and Suns again, along with several stints in the NBA G League.

Early life

Isaiah Thomas was born on February 7, 1989{{Cite web|url=https://www.wkyc.com/article/sports/nba/cavaliers/whos-isaiah-thomas-meet-the-cleveland-cavaliers-new-star-point-guard/95-466700093|title=Who's Isaiah Thomas? Meet the Cleveland Cavaliers new star point guard|website=wkyc.com|last=Axelrod|first=Ben|date=August 23, 2017}} to James Thomas and Tina Baldtrip. A lifelong Los Angeles Lakers fan, James Thomas made a bet with a friend that if his beloved team did not defeat the Detroit Pistons in the 1989 NBA Finals, he would name his son after Pistons star and decorated Lakers nemesis Isiah Thomas. Thomas was born months before the finals took place but his father had warmed to the name and his mother consented on the condition that the Biblical spelling of Isaiah was utilized.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/vault/2011/02/07/106033444/the-name-of-the-game|title=The Name of the Game|first=Pablo S.|last=Torre|magazine= Sports Illustrated |date=February 7, 2011|access-date=April 13, 2016}}{{cite news | url=https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/knicks/post/_/id/11902/knicks-fans-boo-isaiah-thomas | title=Knicks fans boo Isaiah Thomas | publisher=ESPN | date=February 15, 2012 | access-date= February 15, 2012 | last = Begley| first= Ian}} Thomas was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington.{{cite magazine| url=http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article132108384.html | title=Isaiah Thomas has a new home in Tacoma: His own basketball court |first= Todd |last=Miles| magazine=The News Tribune |date=February 10, 2017 |access-date=April 24, 2017}} As a child, he had the nicknames "Bighead" (or Head) from his father and "Zeke" (which was Isiah Thomas's nickname) from his mother.{{cite magazine|url= https://www.si.com/vault/2017/02/08/little-man-big-shots |title= Little Man, Big Shots |first=Tim|last=Layden|magazine=Sports Illustrated| date=February 13, 2017 | access-date=April 29, 2017}}

High school career

Thomas attended Curtis Senior High School in University Place, Washington, through 11th grade. As his grades had to improve to earn a scholarship, Thomas repeated his senior year across the country at South Kent School in South Kent, Connecticut.{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2016/4/5/11362354/isaiah-thomas-feature-profile-biography-boston-celtics-wanted|title=All Isaiah Thomas needed was to be wanted|date=April 5, 2016|work=SBNation.com|access-date=August 16, 2019}} Thomas graduated from the Connecticut prep school in 2008. At Curtis High, playing for the varsity basketball team, Thomas had averaged 31.2 points per game as a junior.{{cite web|url=http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskies/2008056131_umen17.html|title=Huskies – Isaiah Thomas ready to play basketball for Huskies|work= The Seattle Times|access-date=April 13, 2016}} On April 20, 2006, he called a news briefing to announce his intention to sign with the University of Washington.{{cite web| url= https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/20060419/thomas19/curtis-isaiah-thomas-likely-to-choose-uw| title= Curtis' Isaiah Thomas likely to choose UW| work= The Seattle Times| access-date= April 13, 2016| archive-date= September 26, 2012| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120926175644/http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20060419&slug=thomas19| url-status= live}}

{{College athlete recruit entry

| recruit = Isaiah Thomas

| position = PG

| hometown = South Kent, Connecticut

| highschool = South Kent School

| feet = 5

| inches = 8

| weight = 170

| commitdate = April 19, 2006

| scout stars = 3

| rivals stars = 4

| 247 stars = 3

| espn grade = 76

}}

{{College athlete recruit end

| 40 = no

| year = 2008

| rivals ref title = 2008 Washington Basketball Commitment List

| scout ref title = 2008 Washington College Basketball Team Recruiting Prospects

| espn ref title = Washington Huskies 2008 Player Commits

| rivals school = washington

| scout s = 75

| espn schoolid = 264

| scout overall = 2 (PG); 22 (school)

| rivals overall = 14 (PG); 92 (national)

| accessdate = March 1, 2017 | archivedate = March 1, 2017

| rivals archiveurl= https://washington.rivals.com/commitments/basketball/2008

| scout archiveurl = http://www.scout.com/2008-basketball-commits?team=Washington

| espn archiveurl = http://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/school/_/id/264/class/2008

| bball = yes

}}

College career

File:IsaiahThomas22.jpg

Thomas received the blessing of Nate Robinson, the former Washington Huskies star, to wear his No. 2 jersey.{{cite web|url=http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskies/2008393679_umen15.html|title=Huskies – UW Men's Basketball – No. 2-man Isaiah Thomas expects big returns|work=The Seattle Times|access-date=April 13, 2016}} Thomas scored a season-high 27 points in an 81–67 home victory over Morgan State on December 30, 2008.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=283650264|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814103839/http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=283650264|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 14, 2017|title=Morgan State vs. Washington – Game Recap – December 30, 2008 |publisher=ESPN|access-date=April 13, 2016}}

Thomas averaged 15.5 points, 2.6 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game as a true freshman. He was named Pac-10 Freshman of the Year and second-team All-Pac-10.

As a sophomore, Thomas' averages rose to 16.9 points, 3.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game. He was named first-team All-Pac-10.{{cite web|url=http://www.gohuskies.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=208063595&DB_OEM_ID=30200|title=Isaiah Thomas Biography|work=GoHuskies.com|access-date=April 13, 2016}}

Thomas was again named first-team All-Pac-10 in his junior year. On March 12, 2011, Thomas scored 28 points and hit a game-winning buzzer beater in overtime to lead the Huskies to victory over Arizona in the championship game of the Pac-10 tournament. He was among the final ten candidates for the Bob Cousy Award in his junior season.{{cite web|url=http://www.cousyaward.com/docs/CousyAward2011.pdf |title=BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES FINAL TEN CANDIDATES FOR 2011 BOB COUSY AWARD |work=Bob Cousy Award |date=February 7, 2011 |access-date=July 7, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002104704/http://www.cousyaward.com/docs/CousyAward2011.pdf |archive-date=October 2, 2011 }} A few weeks later on March 31, Thomas declared for the NBA draft, forgoing his final year of college eligibility.{{cite web |url= http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/03/pac-10-basketball-washington-star-guard-isaiah-thomas-declares-for-nba-draft.html|title=Sports Now| work= Los Angeles Times|date=March 31, 2011|access-date=April 13, 2016}}

Professional career

=Sacramento Kings (2011–2014)=

File:Isaiah Thomas Dec 2013.jpg

Before the 2011 NBA draft, Thomas participated in his own pre-draft documentary entitled "Road to the NBA–The Isaiah Thomas Story".{{cite web |url= http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2015392991_road_to_the_nba.html |title=Husky Men's Basketball Blog | Road to the NBA – The Isaiah Thomas Story|work=The Seattle Times|access-date=June 23, 2011| first= Percy| last= Allen|date=June 22, 2011}} Thomas was selected in the second round of the 2011 NBA draft with the 60th and final pick by the Sacramento Kings. On February 19, 2012, he recorded his first double-double with 23 points and 11 assists against the Cleveland Cavaliers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/320219005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230220020018/https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/320219005|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 20, 2023|title=Kyrie Irving's two free throws with 0.4 seconds left lift Cavs|work=ESPN|agency=Associated Press|date=February 19, 2012|access-date=February 20, 2023|location=Cleveland}}

On March 1, 2012, Thomas was named the Western Conference NBA Rookie of the Month after averaging 12.2 points and 4.4 assists per contest in February.{{cite web |url= http://www.nba.com/kings/news/isaiah_thomas_rookie_of_the_month_release.html |title= Cleveland's Kyrie Irving and Sacramento's Isaiah Thomas Named Rookies of the Month |website= NBA.com |access-date=March 1, 2012|date=March 1, 2012}} No player before had gone on to win Rookie of the Month honors after being picked last in the NBA draft. On April 2, 2012, Thomas was once again named Western Conference NBA Rookie of the Month after posting averages of 13.6 points and 4.9 assists per contest in March.{{cite web|title=Isaiah Thomas Named NBA Western Conference Rookie of the Month for March|url=http://www.nba.com/kings/news/isaiah_thomas_rookie_of_the_month_for_march_release.html|work=sacramentokings.com|access-date=May 23, 2012}} Thomas was also named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team and finished seventh in NBA Rookie of the Year voting.{{cite web|last=Shiller|first=Drew|title=Thompson named to All-Rookie First Team, Thomas to Second Team|url=http://www.csnbayarea.com/basketball-golden-state-warriors/warriors-talk/Thompson-named-to-All-Rookie-First-Team-?blockID=712354&feedID=2799|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120924174730/http://www.csnbayarea.com/basketball-golden-state-warriors/warriors-talk/Thompson-named-to-All-Rookie-First-Team-?blockID=712354&feedID=2799|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 24, 2012|work=csnbayarea.com|access-date=May 23, 2012}}

On January 19, 2014, Thomas scored a then-career-high of 38 points during a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20140119/SACOKC/gameinfo.html|title=Kings at Thunder|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=April 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140703053204/http://www.nba.com/games/20140119/SACOKC/gameinfo.html|archive-date=July 3, 2014|url-status=dead}} Five days later, he tied this same total in points against the Indiana Pacers. On March 18, 2014, Thomas recorded his first career triple-double with 24 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds in a 117–111 overtime victory over the Washington Wizards; in doing so, Thomas became the shortest player to ever record a triple-double in the NBA.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20140318/WASSAC/gameinfo.html|title=Wizards at Kings|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=April 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140703072716/http://www.nba.com/games/20140318/WASSAC/gameinfo.html|archive-date=July 3, 2014|url-status=dead}} During the 2013–14 season, Thomas joined Calvin Murphy (twice), Dana Barros, Damon Stoudamire, and Michael Adams as the only players under {{cvt|6|ft}} tall to average over 20 points and six assists per game in a season.{{cite web| url= http://www.brightsideofthesun.com/2014/7/15/5898943/new-phoenix-sun-isaiah-thomas-goran-dragic-eric-bledsoe|title=New Phoenix Suns PG Isaiah Thomas provides bang for the buck| first= Jim| last= Coughenour|date=July 15, 2014|work=Bright Side of the Sun|access-date=April 13, 2016}}

Thomas was immensely popular in his three seasons in Sacramento; his show of solidarity and frequent appearances at City Council meetings during the Kings' relocation saga, in particular, endeared him to many fans.{{cite web|last=Voisin|first=Ailene|url=http://www.sacbee.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/ailene-voisin/article131384959.html|title=Celtics' Isaiah Thomas gets the last laugh|work=sacbee.com|date=February 7, 2017|access-date=February 20, 2018}}

=Phoenix Suns (2014–2015)=

On July 12, 2014, Thomas was acquired by the Phoenix Suns in a sign-and-trade deal that also sent the rights of Alex Oriakhi to the Kings.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/suns/news/suns-complete-sign-and-trade-isaiah-thomas|title=Suns Complete Sign-and-Trade for Isaiah Thomas |publisher= National Basketball Association |access-date=April 13, 2016}} On August 14, Thomas underwent a successful arthroscopy of his left wrist, for an injury sustained the previous season.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/suns/press-release/suns-thomas-undergoes-successful-procedure|title=Suns Thomas Undergoes Successful Procedure|work=Phoenix Suns|access-date=April 13, 2016}} Thomas made his debut for the Suns in their victorious 119–99 season opener over the Los Angeles Lakers, in which he recorded 23 points.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20141029/LALPHX/gameinfo.html|title=Lakers at Suns|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=April 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141112171143/http://www.nba.com/games/20141029/LALPHX/gameinfo.html|archive-date=November 12, 2014|url-status=dead}}

After missing eight games with an ankle injury, Thomas returned to action on December 12, 2014, scoring 10 points in the Suns' 105–103 loss to the Detroit Pistons.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20141212/DETPHX/gameinfo.html|title=Pistons at Suns|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=April 13, 2016}} On January 21, 2015, he recorded a season-high 27 points off the bench in a 118–113 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. On February 5, Thomas was announced as a contestant for the NBA Skills Challenge, making him the shortest contestant to ever participate in the event.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/suns/press-release/isaiah-thomas-compete-2015-skills-challenge|title=Isaiah Thomas to Compete in 2015 Skills Challenge|work=Phoenix Suns|access-date=April 13, 2016}}

=Boston Celtics (2015–2017)=

On February 19, 2015, Thomas was traded to the Boston Celtics in exchange for Marcus Thornton and a 2016 first-round pick.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/pressrelease/celtics-acquire-thomas-phoenix|title=Celtics Acquire Thomas From Phoenix|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=February 19, 2015|access-date=February 19, 2015}} During his Celtics tenure, Thomas emerged as a star,{{Cite web|url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/celtics/2017/01/19/isaiah-thomas-stats-surge-more-amazing-than-you-might-have-thought/6OKxMACvgkTKOr88MI5EEJ/story.html|title=Isaiah Thomas's stat surge is more amazing than you think |website=BostonGlobe.com|last=Speier |first=Alex |date=January 19, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=https://nesn.com/2016/04/isaiah-thomas-emerging-as-celtics-foundation-player-proving-doubters-wrong/|title=Isaiah Thomas Emerging As Celtics' 'Foundation Player,' Proving Doubters Wrong|website=NESN.com|date=April 25, 2016}}{{Cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2729127-celtics-players-reportedly-really-werent-that-fond-of-isaiah-thomas|title=Celtics Players Reportedly 'Really Weren't That Fond Of' Isaiah Thomas|first=Joseph|last=Zucker|website=Bleacher Report|date=August 23, 2017}} a fan favorite,{{Cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2019/3/19/18272501/isaiah-thomas-tribute-video-return-celtics|title=Was IT's emotional tribute video the start of a Celtics return?|first=Matt|last=Ellentuck|date=March 19, 2019|website=SBNation.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://celticswire.usatoday.com/lists/nba-boston-celtics-isaiah-thomas-52-history-2021/|title=On this day: Isaiah Thomas goes for 52; most points in a half for Celtics|website=CelticsWire.com|date=December 30, 2021}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.nbcsportsboston.com/nba/boston-celtics/nba-stars-show-love-for-isaiah-thomas-after-stellar-g-league-debut/197420/|title=NBA stars show love for Isaiah Thomas after stellar G League debut|website=NBCSportsBoston.com|date=December 16, 2021}} and an "elite crunch-time scorer".{{Cite web|url=https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2016/11/18/how-isaiah-thomas-has-emerged-as-an-elite-crunch-time-scorer/|title=How Isaiah Thomas has emerged as an elite crunch time scorer|website=www.boston.com|date=November 18, 2016}}

Thomas made his debut for the Celtics on February 18, 2015, in a 118–111 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring 21 points off the bench.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20150222/BOSLAL/gameinfo.html|title=Lakers stop 7-game losing streak with OT win over Celtics|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=February 22, 2015|access-date=February 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614054948/http://www.nba.com/games/20150222/BOSLAL/gameinfo.html|archive-date=June 14, 2016|url-status=dead}} On March 2, 2015, he was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for games played Monday, February 23, through Sunday, March 1.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/pressrelease/isaiah-thomas-named-eastern-conference-player-week|title=Isaiah Thomas Named Eastern Conference Player of the Week|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=March 2, 2015|access-date=March 2, 2015}} Thomas later missed eight games in March with a bruised lower back.{{cite web|last=Cox|first=Zack|url=http://nesn.com/2015/03/isaiah-thomas-to-return-for-celtics-vs-heat-after-eight-game-absence/|title=Isaiah Thomas To Return For Celtics Vs. Heat After Eight-Game Absence|work=NESN.com|date=March 25, 2015|access-date=December 30, 2016}} On April 8, he scored a season-high 34 points in a 113–103 victory over the Detroit Pistons.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20150408/BOSDET/gameinfo.html|title=Celtics eliminate Pistons from race, 113–103|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 8, 2015|access-date=April 8, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228073756/http://www.nba.com/games/20150408/BOSDET/gameinfo.html|archive-date=December 28, 2016|url-status=dead}} Thomas subsequently earned Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors for games played Monday, April 6, through Sunday, April 12.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/pressrelease/misc-041315-thomas-named-eastern-conference-player-of-week|title=Thomas Named Eastern Conference Player of the Week|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 13, 2015|access-date=April 13, 2015}} In his first career playoff game on April 19, Thomas recorded 22 points and 10 assists in a first-round Game 1 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20150419/BOSCLE/gameinfo.html|title="Big 3" lead Cavaliers past Celtics 113–100 in Game 1|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 19, 2015|access-date=April 19, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409062337/http://www.nba.com/games/20150419/BOSCLE/gameinfo.html|archive-date=April 9, 2016|url-status=dead}} The Celtics went on to lose to the Cavaliers in a four-game sweep, with Thomas averaging 17.5 points and 7.0 assists during the series. As a result of his sixth-man role with both Phoenix and Boston in 2014–15, Thomas finished second in the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award voting.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/2015/news/04/20/lou-williams-wins-2014-14-kia-sixth-man-award/|title=Raptors' Lou Williams wins 2014–15 Kia NBA Sixth Man Award|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 20, 2015|access-date=April 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317105208/http://www.nba.com/2015/news/04/20/lou-williams-wins-2014-14-kia-sixth-man-award/|archive-date=March 17, 2017|url-status=dead}}

Thomas continued to play for the Celtics during the 2015–16 season. On December 16, 2015, Thomas tied his then-career high of 38 points in a 119–116 loss to the Detroit Pistons.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20151216/BOSDET/gameinfo.html|title=Caldwell-Pope scores 31 points, Pistons beat Celtics 119–116|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=December 16, 2015|access-date=December 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622004936/http://www.nba.com/games/20151216/BOSDET/gameinfo.html|archive-date=June 22, 2017|url-status=dead}} On January 28, 2016, Thomas was named an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve for the 2016 NBA All-Star Game.{{cite web|last=D'Amico|first=Marc|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/sidebar/012816-no-debate-isaiah-thomas-is-an-all-star|title=No Debate: Isaiah Thomas is an All-Star|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=January 28, 2016|access-date=January 28, 2016}} He became the lowest draft pick to be named an All-Star since the NBA draft was reduced to two rounds in 1989. Thoms also became only the ninth player under {{convert|6|ft}} to be named an All-Star, while also tying Calvin Murphy as the shortest player to be selected for the All-Star Game.{{cite web|last=Forsberg|first=Chris|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/boston/celtics/post/_/id/4721841/isaiah-thomas-on-potential-all-star-nod-i-feel-like-i-deserve-it|title=Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas earns first All-Star nod|publisher=ESPN|date=January 29, 2016|access-date=January 29, 2016}} On February 8, 2016, Thomas was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for games played Monday, February 1, through Sunday, February 7.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/pressrelease/020816-Isaiah-Thomas-Named-Eastern-Conference-Player-of-the-Week|title=Thomas Named Eastern Conference Player of the Week|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=February 8, 2016|access-date=February 8, 2016}}

With the Celtics down 2–0 to the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the 2016 playoffs, Thomas scored a then-career-high 42 points in Game 3 in Boston to lift the Celtics to a 111–103 victory. He became only the ninth Celtic to score 40 points in a playoff game.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20160422/ATLBOS/gameinfo.html|title=Thomas scores 42, lifts Celtics over Hawks 111–103 in Game 3|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 22, 2016|access-date=April 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170529204327/http://www.nba.com/games/20160422/ATLBOS/gameinfo.html|archive-date=May 29, 2017|url-status=dead}} With 28 points in Game 4, Thomas helped the Celtics even the series at 2–2 with a 104–95 overtime victory.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/games/20160424/ATLBOS/gameinfo.html|title=Celtics beat Hawks 104–95 in OT, series tied 2–2|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=April 24, 2016|access-date=April 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180428121014/http://www.nba.com/games/20160424/ATLBOS/gameinfo.html|archive-date=April 28, 2018|url-status=dead}} However, the Celtics went on to lose the series in six games.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap/_/gameId/400874416|title=Hawks hand Celtics their third straight first-round playoff exit|work=ESPN|agency=Associated Press|location=Boston|date=April 29, 2016|access-date=February 20, 2023}}

File:Isaiah Thomas (32511863765).jpg

Thomas scored 20 or more points in 20 of the first 21 games of the 2016–2017 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/t/thomais02/gamelog/2017/|title=Isaiah Thomas 2016–17 Game Log|work=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=February 4, 2017}} He was injured in a December 5, 2016, game against the Houston Rockets and received a platelet-rich plasma injection. After returning from a four-game absence for what the Celtics described as a groin strain,{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/20595342/nba-cleveland-cavaliers-guard-isaiah-thomas-faces-uncertain-return-potentially-career-ending-hip-injury|title=For better or worse, LeBron James and Isaiah Thomas are now joined at Thomas' fragile hip|date=September 5, 2017|website=ESPN.com}} Thomas continued to put up big numbers.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400899833|title=Thomas scores 26 points to lead Celtics over Hornets, 96–88|publisher=ESPN|date=December 16, 2016|access-date=December 17, 2016}} On December 20, he scored a then-career-high 44 points in a 112–109 overtime victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. He also matched his career best for three-pointers, going 7-of-10 from outside the arc.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400899866|title=Thomas scores career-high 44, Celtics beat Grizzlies in OT|publisher=ESPN|date=December 20, 2016|access-date=December 21, 2016}} Thomas earned Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors for the week spanning December 19 through December 25.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2016/12/26/nba-players-week-isaiah-thomas-russell-westbrook|title=Isaiah Thomas, Russell Westbrook named Players of the Week|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=December 26, 2016|access-date=December 30, 2016}} On December 30 against the Miami Heat, he scored 29 of his career-high 52 points in the fourth quarter, setting a franchise record for points in a period and leading Boston to a 117–114 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400899936|title=Thomas scores 52 for Celtics in 117–114 win over Miami|publisher=ESPN|date=December 30, 2016|access-date=December 30, 2016}} Thomas' 52 points was the fourth-highest scoring total in Celtics history—Larry Bird holds the record, having scored 60 points in March 1985 game. On January 3, 2017, Thomas recorded 29 points and a career-high 15 assists in a 115–104 victory over the Utah Jazz.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400899423|title=Thomas' 29 points, 15 assists send Celtics past Jazz 115–104|publisher=ESPN|date=January 3, 2017|access-date=January 4, 2017}}File:Isaiah Thomas (34300573362).jpg

On January 26, 2017, Thomas was named an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve for the 2017 NBA All-Star Game.{{cite web|last=Whitaker|first=Lang|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2017/01/26/nba-all-star-reserves-2017-revealed|title=Warriors, Cavaliers dominate selections for NBA All-Star 2017 as reserves are revealed|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=January 26, 2017|access-date=January 27, 2017}} He averaged 32.9 points in January, marking the third-highest monthly average in team history.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400900142|title=Thomas scores 41 for Celtics in 113–109 win over Pistons|publisher=ESPN|date=January 30, 2017|access-date=January 31, 2017}} On February 2, Thomas was named Eastern Conference Player of the Month for January. He led the NBA in scoring (32.9 ppg) and tied for fifth in the East in assists (6.9 apg) for the month as the Celtics went 10–4 to take over first place in the Atlantic Division.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2017/02/02/isaiah-thomas-stephen-curry-kevin-durant-named-players-month-january|title=Thomas, Curry and Durant named players of month for January|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=February 2, 2017|access-date=February 2, 2017}} On February 15, Thomas scored 33 points in a 116–108 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. It was his 40th straight 20-point game, tying a team record set by John Havlicek during the 1971–72 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400900242|title=Thomas scores 33, Celtics hold off late push by 76ers|publisher=ESPN|date=February 15, 2017|access-date=February 15, 2017}} The following day, Thomas broke Havlicek's team record with a 41st straight 20-point game; he scored 29 points in a 104–103 loss to the Chicago Bulls.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400900255|title=Butler lifts Bulls to 104–103 victory over Celtics|publisher=ESPN|date=February 16, 2017|access-date=February 17, 2017}} With 19 points against the Atlanta Hawks on February 27, Thomas' franchise-record streak of consecutive 20-point games ended at 43. It was only the second time during the season that he did not score at least 20 points in a game.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400900291|title=Hawks prevail 114–98 in scrappy showdown with Celtics|publisher=ESPN|date=February 27, 2017|access-date=February 27, 2017}}

Thomas suffered an injury in a March 15, 2017, game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and missed the following two games. With 32 points against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 29, he became only the sixth Celtic ever to score 2,000 points in a single season. Thomas also extended his streak with at least one three-pointer to a franchise-best 50 straight games.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400900508|title=Bucks fend off late Celtics rally in 103–100 win|publisher=ESPN|date=March 29, 2017|access-date=March 30, 2017}} Behind his leadership, the Celtics finished the 2016–2017 season as the top seed in the Eastern Conference;{{Cite web|url=https://fansided.com/2021/09/17/isaiah-thomas-last-chance-workout-warriors/|title=Isaiah Thomas is getting a last-chance workout with the Warriors|website=Fansided.com|date=September 17, 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://kgmi.com/news/007700-nba-playoffs-former-husky-isaiah-thomas-leads-celtics-to-no-1-seed-in-the-eastern-conference/|title=NBA Playoffs: Former Husky Isaiah Thomas leads Celtics to No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference |website=KGMI.com |date=April 13, 2017 }} the team's record was 53–29.{{Cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/BOS/2017.html|title=2016–17 Boston Celtics Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}} Thomas finished the regular season as the third-leading scorer in the NBA, averaging 28.9 points per game.{{Cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10004000-isaiah-thomas-says-celtics-didnt-reveal-long-term-risk-of-2017-hip-injury|title=Isaiah Thomas Says Celtics Didn't Reveal Long-term Risk of 2017 Hip Injury|first=Rob|last=Goldberg|website=Bleacher Report}}

In the 2017 playoffs, Thomas led the Celtics to a first-round series victory over the Chicago Bulls after learning the day before the series began that his younger sister, Chyna, had died in a car accident. After the Celtics defeated the Bulls in six games, Thomas flew cross-country to attend his sister's funeral. Thomas returned to Boston for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals and helped the Celtics defeat the Washington Wizards 123–111.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400952526|title=Thomas' 33, Celtics' 3s too much for Wizards in 123–111 win|publisher=ESPN|date=April 30, 2017|access-date=April 30, 2017}} According to ESPN, during Game 1, "Thomas lost a front tooth following an inadvertent elbow from Otto Porter, requiring surgery to replace it and fix two other shifted teeth. He played through the dental wreck and scored 33 points and notched nine assists in the win. He didn't miss a game". Two days later in Game 2, Thomas scored 53 points—the second-highest total in Celtics playoff history—to help Boston win 129–119 in overtime and take a 2–0 lead in the series. He became only the fifth Celtic to score 50 or more points in a postseason game, missing John Havlicek's team record by one point.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400952527|title=Thomas scores 53, Celtics beat Wizards 129–119 in OT|publisher=ESPN|date=May 2, 2017|access-date=May 2, 2017}} In Game 7, Thomas scored 29 points and had 12 assists to help the Celtics advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2012 with a 115–105 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400952532|title=Celtics power past Wizards in Game 7, 115–105|publisher=ESPN|date=May 15, 2017|access-date=May 15, 2017}}

After the Celtics lost the first two games of the 2017 Eastern Conference Finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Thomas was ruled out for the rest of the postseason with a hip injury.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/press-052017-isaiah-thomas-ruled-out-for-game-3|title=Isaiah Thomas Ruled Out for Remainder of Playoffs|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=May 20, 2017|access-date=May 20, 2017}} In a statement, the Celtics said:

Isaiah Thomas will miss the remainder of this year's postseason following re-aggravation of a right femoral-acetabular impingement with labral tear during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against Cleveland. Thomas initially injured the hip during the third quarter of the Celtics' March 15 game against Minnesota... the injury was further aggravated during Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at Washington on May 12.

The Celtics were defeated by the Cavaliers in five games in the Eastern Conference Finals.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2017/05/25/lebron-james-ends-celtics-season-sends-cavs-back-to-finals-with-135-102-win-in-game-5/|title=LeBron James ends Celtics' season, sends Cavs back to Finals with 135–102 win in Game 5|first=Chris|last=Greenberg|website=www.boston.com}}

Thomas finished fifth in the NBA's most valuable player (MVP) voting for the 2016–17 season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2017/06/27/russell-westbrook-wins-nba-mvp-isaiah-thomas-finishes-5th/|title=Russell Westbrook wins NBA MVP; Isaiah Thomas finishes 5th|website=www.boston.com|date=June 27, 2017}}

=Cleveland Cavaliers (2017–2018)=

On August 22, 2017, Thomas was traded, along with Jae Crowder, Ante Žižić, and the Brooklyn Nets' unprotected 2018 first-round draft pick, to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Kyrie Irving.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/celtics/news/pressrelease/celtics-acquire-four-time-all-star-kyrie-irving|title=Celtics Acquire Four-Time All-Star Kyrie Irving|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=August 22, 2017|access-date=August 22, 2017}} However, during the post-trade physical examination by Cleveland staff, concerns were raised about the health of Thomas' previously injured right hip.{{cite news|last=Wojnarowski|first=Adrian|title=Cleveland Cavaliers plan to seek additional compensation from Boston Celtics|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/20467655/cleveland-cavaliers-plan-seek-additional-compensation-boston-celtics|publisher=ESPN|access-date=August 29, 2017|date=August 27, 2017}} As a result, eight days after the deal was announced, the Celtics agreed to send the Cavaliers a 2020 second-round draft pick via the Miami Heat to complete the trade.{{cite web|last=Wojnarowski|first=Adrian|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/20512119/cleveland-cavaliers-getting-additional-2020-second-rounder-boston-celtics-complete-trade|title=Cavs add 2nd-round pick from Celtics to complete Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade|publisher=ESPN|date=August 30, 2017|access-date=August 30, 2017}} In September 2017, TheAthletic.com reported that Thomas had been playing with a number of secondary issues in his right hip, such as a loss of cartilage and some arthritis, for several seasons.{{cite web|last=Lloyd|first=Jason|url=https://theathletic.com/96596/2017/09/07/lloyd-so-few-answers-raise-even-more-questions-about-isaiah-thomas-health/|title=Lloyd: So few answers raise even more questions about Isaiah Thomas' health|work=theathletic.com|date=September 8, 2017|access-date=September 9, 2017}} Thomas opted to pursue rehabilitation rather than surgery for the hip because he believed that the lengthy post-surgery recovery period would cause teams to be less willing to offer him large contracts during his upcoming free agency.{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/nba/2021/02/25/isaiah-thomas-looks-like-himself-again-daily-cover|title=For the First Time in Forever, Isaiah Thomas Looks Like Himself|first=Howard|last=Beck|date=February 25, 2021|magazine=Sports Illustrated}}

Thomas' right hip injury proved to be debilitating,{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/college/washington/legends/isaiah-thomas-has-new-hip-and-ready-to-resume-nba-career|title=Isaiah Thomas, New Hip and All, Ready to Resume NBA Career|first=Dan|last=Raley|date=October 6, 2020|magazine=Sports Illustrated }} and it damaged his NBA career. The injury prevented Thomas from playing for the Cavaliers until January 2018.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sfgate.com/warriors/article/Isaiah-Thomas-returns-from-hip-injury-to-help-12469770.php|title=Isaiah Thomas returns from hip injury to help Cavaliers to win|date=January 3, 2018|website=SFGATE}} Upon his return to the court, Thomas was unable to play as effectively as he had played in earlier seasons.

On January 2, 2018, Thomas made his long-awaited debut for the Cavaliers, scoring 17 points in 19 minutes off the bench in a 127–110 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975295|title=Thomas has smashing debut as Cavs down Trail Blazers 127–110|publisher=ESPN|date=January 2, 2018|access-date=January 2, 2018}} A day later, Thomas returned to TD Garden.{{Cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/21953794/isaiah-thomas-cleveland-cavaliers-gets-loud-ovation-bench-boston-return|title=Thomas gets standing O, all 'good' with Ainge|publisher=ESPN|access-date=January 4, 2018}} Although he did not play in the Cavaliers' 102–88 loss to the Celtics, Thomas received a standing ovation from the Celtics fans. On January 6, he had 19 points and four assists in his second appearance and first start of the season in a 131–127 victory over the Orlando Magic.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975328|title=LeBron James assist short of triple-double in Cavs' win|publisher=ESPN|date=January 6, 2018|access-date=January 6, 2018}} On January 20, Thomas scored a season-high 24 points in a 148–124 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975420|title=George scores 36, Thunder blast LeBron, Cavs 148–124|publisher=ESPN|date=January 20, 2018|access-date=January 20, 2018}} He averaged 14.7 points per game for the Cavaliers on 36.1% shooting.

=Los Angeles Lakers (2018)=

On February 8, 2018, the Cavaliers traded Thomas, Channing Frye, and a 2018 first-round draft pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr.{{cite web|title=Lakers Acquire Isaiah Thomas, Channing Frye in Trade with Cleveland|url=http://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/180208lakers-acquire-thomas-frye|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=February 8, 2018|date=February 8, 2018}} In his Lakers debut two days later, Thomas scored 22 points off the bench in a 130–123 loss to the Dallas Mavericks.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975576|title=Nowitzki, Mavs spoil Thomas debut in 130–123 win over Lakers|publisher=ESPN|date=February 10, 2018|access-date=February 11, 2018}} On March 1, he scored a season-high 29 points in a 131–113 victory over the Miami Heat.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975668|title=Lakers shred Heat defense, stay hot with easy 131–113 win|publisher=ESPN|date=March 1, 2018|access-date=March 1, 2018}} On March 29, Thomas was ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right hip.{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/180329-isaiah-thomas-medical-update|title=Isaiah Thomas Medical update|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=March 29, 2018|access-date=March 29, 2018}} In 17 games for the Lakers, he averaged 15.6 points per game on 38.3% shooting.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/player/stats/_/id/6472/isaiah-thomas|title=Isaiah Thomas Stats|website=ESPN}}

=Denver Nuggets (2018–2019)=

On July 16, 2018, Thomas signed a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets{{cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/nuggets/news/nuggets-sign-thomas-071318|title=Denver Nuggets Sign Veteran Guard Isaiah Thomas|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=July 16, 2018|access-date=July 16, 2018}} for a veteran's minimum contract{{Cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/2018/2/8/16992432/isaiah-thomas-free-agent-nuggets-lakers-cavs-celtics|title=A timeline of Isaiah Thomas going from max money to minimum money|first=Tim|last=Cato|date=February 8, 2018|website=SBNation.com}} of $2 million.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/24081526/isaiah-thomas-agrees-1-year-deal-denver-nuggets|title=Sources: Isaiah Thomas to sign with Nuggets|date=July 13, 2018|website=ESPN.com}} After his recovery from hip surgery, Thomas made his debut for the Nuggets on February 13, 2019, scoring all eight of his points in the third quarter of Denver's 120–118 victory over the Sacramento Kings. It was his first game since March 22, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=401071533|title=Jokic tips in winner as Nuggets beat Kings 120–118|publisher=ESPN|date=February 13, 2019|access-date=February 14, 2019}} In the 12 games Thomas played for Denver, he averaged 8.1 points per game on 34.3% shooting.

=Washington Wizards (2019–2020)=

On July 10, 2019, Thomas signed with the Washington Wizards.{{cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/wizards/wizards-sign-isaiah-thomas|title=Wizards sign Isaiah Thomas|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=July 10, 2019}} He injured his left thumb on September 16 and underwent surgery on two days later.{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2019/09/18/wizards-isaiah-thomas-out-6-8-weeks-after-thumb-surgery/40166981/|title=Wizards' Isaiah Thomas out 6–8 weeks after thumb surgery|website=USA TODAY}} On December 22, Thomas was suspended for two games without pay for entering the stands during a game.{{Cite web|title=Wizards' Isaiah Thomas suspended|date=December 23, 2019|url=https://pr.nba.com/isaiah-thomas-suspension-washington-wizards/|access-date=October 11, 2021|publisher=National Basketball Association}} In 40 games with the Wizards, he averaged 12.2 points per game on 40.8% shooting and 41.3% shooting from beyond the three-point arc.

On February 6, 2020, Thomas was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers as a trade deadline acquisition.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/knicks/front-office-news/new-york-knicks-acquire-harkless-and-two-draft-picks|title=New York Knicks Acquire Harkless and Two Draft Picks|date=February 6, 2020|publisher=National Basketball Association|quote=The Clippers received guard Isaiah Thomas from Washington...}} However, he was waived the next day.{{cite web |title=L.A. Clippers Waive Isaiah Thomas |url=https://www.nba.com/clippers/la-clippers-waive-isaiah-thomas |publisher=National Basketball Association |access-date=June 10, 2021 |date=February 7, 2020}}

On May 6, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas underwent right hip resurfacing surgery.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30046701/isaiah-thomas-ready-contribute-nba-roster-undergoing-hip-procedure-five-months-ago|title=IT ready to contribute again following hip surgery|date=October 5, 2020|website=ESPN.com}} ESPN reported that before the resurfacing surgery, "Thomas' hip was bone-on-bone, the pain [was] relentless and the constant favoring of his right side constantly compromised his balance." In October 2020, Thomas said: "'It's like night and day for me. There's no more pain. I've got my full range of motion. For three years, I was trying to play the best players in the world on one leg. I needed help from my kids to put my socks on in the morning.'"

=New Orleans Pelicans (2021)=

On April 3, 2021, Thomas signed a 10-day contract with the New Orleans Pelicans.{{cite web|title=Pelicans sign Isaiah Thomas to 10-day contract|url=https://www.nba.com/pelicans/news/pelicans-sign-isaiah-thomas-10-day-contract|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=April 3, 2021|date=April 3, 2021}} In three games with the Pelicans, he averaged 7.7 points per game.{{Cite web |last=Lopez |first=Andrew |date=April 13, 2021 |title=New Orleans Pelicans not signing Isaiah Thomas to second 10-day contract at this time, source says |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31250024/new-orleans-pelicans-not-signing-isaiah-thomas-second-10-day-contract-source-says |access-date=May 2, 2021 |publisher=ESPN}}

=Grand Rapids Gold (2021)=

On December 13, 2021, Thomas signed with the Grand Rapids Gold of the NBA G League.{{cite web|title=Grand Rapids Gold Acquire NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/grand-rapids-gold-acquire-nba-all-star-isaiah-thomas/n-5773637|website=OurSportsCentral.com|date=December 13, 2021|access-date=December 13, 2021}} He made his debut for the team on December 15, scoring 42 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in 42 minutes during a 131–127 loss to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.{{Cite web|title=WATCH: I.T. drops 42 points in G League debut|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/celtics/isaiah-thomas-drops-42-points-nba-g-league-debut|access-date=December 15, 2021|last=Leger|first=Justin|date=December 15, 2021|website=NBC Sports}}

=Return to the Lakers (2021)=

On December 17, 2021, Thomas signed a 10-day contract with the Los Angeles Lakers to return to the franchise for a second time after the team was granted a hardship exception.{{cite web|title=Lakers Sign Isaiah Thomas to 10-day Contract|url=https://www.nba.com/lakers/releases/lakers-sign-isaiah-thomas-10-day-contract|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=December 17, 2021|access-date=December 17, 2021}} In his season debut, Thomas scored 19 points in 22 minutes in a loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves.{{cite news |author1=Dave McMenamin |title=Lakers' Russell Westbrook plays after clearing protocol; Isaiah Thomas has 19 in season debut |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/32890777/russell-westbrook-clears-covid-protocol-available-los-angeles-lakers-vs-minnesota-timberwolves |access-date=December 18, 2021 |publisher=ESPN |date=December 18, 2021}} He played four games for the Lakers.

=Dallas Mavericks (2021–2022)=

On December 29, 2021, Thomas signed a 10-day contract with the Dallas Mavericks.{{Cite web|title=Mavericks sign Isaiah Thomas to 10-day contract|url=https://www.nba.com/news/mavericks-sign-isaiah-thomas-to-10-day-contract|access-date=December 29, 2021|publisher=National Basketball Association}} He only played in one game for the Mavericks.

=Return to the Gold (2022)=

On February 14, 2022, Thomas was re-acquired by the Grand Rapids Gold.{{Cite web |title=Report: Isaiah Thomas to Rejoin G League's Grand Rapids Gold After All-Star Break |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10027152-report-isaiah-thomas-to-rejoin-g-leagues-grand-rapids-gold-after-all-star-break |website=Bleacher Report|last=Zucker|first=Joseph|date=February 15, 2022}} By the end of his time there, Thomas averaged 41.3 points per game across three games.{{Cite web |title= Isaiah Thomas|url=https://stats.gleague.nba.com/player/202738/}}

=Charlotte Hornets (2022)=

On March 2, 2022, Thomas signed a 10-day contract with the Charlotte Hornets{{cite web|title=Charlotte Hornets sign veteran Isaiah Thomas to a 10-day contract|url=https://www.nba.com/news/charlotte-hornets-sign-veteran-isaiah-thomas-to-a-10-day-contract|website=NBA.com|date=March 2, 2022|access-date=March 2, 2022}} and ten days later, he signed a second 10-day contract.{{cite web|first=Quinton|last=Wash|title=Hornets Sign Isiah Thomas To Second 10-Day Contract|url=https://www.nba.com/hornets/press-releases/hornets-sign-isiah-thomas-second-10-day-contract|website=NBA.com|date=March 12, 2022|access-date=March 12, 2022}} On March 22, Thomas was signed for the rest of the season.{{cite web|author=chamrochinski|title=Hornets Sign Isaiah Thomas for the Remainder of the Season|url=https://www.nba.com/hornets/press-releases/hornets-sign-isaiah-thomas-remainder-season|website=NBA.com|date=March 22, 2022|access-date=March 22, 2022}} In 17 games with the Hornets, he averaged 8.3 points per game on 43.3% shooting and 39.7% shooting from beyond the three-point line.

Thomas did not play in the NBA during the 2022–23 season. In May 2023, he stated that he hoped to play in the NBA in the 2023–24 season.{{cite web|first=Shane Garry|last=Acedera|title=Isaiah Thomas talks about possible NBA return: "Anything that's needed, I'm willing to do."|url=https://www.basketballnetwork.net/latest-news/isaiah-thomas-talks-about-possible-nba-return|website=BasketballNetwork.net|date=May 4, 2023|access-date=May 4, 2023}}

=Salt Lake City Stars (2024)=

On March 6, 2024, Thomas joined the Salt Lake City Stars.{{cite web|title=SLC Stars Acquire Two-Time NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/slc-stars-acquire-two-time-nba-all-star-isaiah-thomas/n-6064347|website=OurSportsCentral.com|date=March 6, 2024|access-date=March 7, 2024}}{{cite web|first=Andy|last=Larsen|title=Utah Jazz give former 2x All-Star Isaiah Thomas a shot with G-League SLC Stars|url=https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2024/03/05/utah-jazz-give-former-2x-all-star/|work=The Salt Lake Tribune|date=March 5, 2024|access-date=March 5, 2024}} In his debut for the Stars, Thomas recorded 32 points and four assists on 7–for–23 shooting from the field.{{cite web|first=Ricardo|last=Sandoval|title=2-Time Former Laker Turns Heads In G League Debut|url=https://www.si.com/nba/lakers/news/2-time-former-laker-turns-heads-in-g-league-debut-rks97|website=SI.com|date=March 11, 2024|access-date=March 12, 2024}} He averaged 32.5 points and 5.3 assists per game across 4 games.{{Cite web |title= Isaiah Thomas|url=https://stats.gleague.nba.com/player/202738/}}

=Return to the Suns (2024)=

On March 20, 2024, Thomas signed a 10-day contract with the Phoenix Suns.{{cite tweet|first=Gerald|last=Bourguet|title=Officially official: The Suns sign Isaiah Thomas to a 10-day contract.|number=1770495579703112047|user=GeraldBourguet|date=March 20, 2024|access-date=March 20, 2024}} Later that day, he played in his first NBA game in nearly two years against the Philadelphia 76ers, logging one assist in two minutes played.{{cite web|title=Phoenix Suns News: Watch Isaiah Thomas Play First NBA Game Since 2022 Vs Sixers|url=https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/phoenix-suns-news-watch-isaiah-thomas-play-first-nba-game-since-2022-vs-sixers-1881648|website=Newsweek.com|date=March 21, 2024|access-date=March 21, 2024}} On March 30, Thomas signed a second 10-day contract with the Suns.{{cite tweet|author=Phoenix Suns|title=OFFICIAL: Suns sign Isaiah Thomas to a second 10-day contract.|number=1774127052003721324|user=Suns|date=March 30, 2024|access-date=March 30, 2024}} He signed with the Suns for the remainder of the season on April 9.{{cite tweet|author=Phoenix Suns|title=OFFICIAL: Suns sign Isaiah Thomas for remainder of season.|number=1777738262548984073|user=Suns|date=April 9, 2024|access-date=April 9, 2024}}

=Return to Salt Lake City (2025–present)=

On January 28, 2025, Thomas rejoined the Salt Lake City Stars,{{cite web|title=SLC Stars Activate Two-Time NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/slc-stars-activate-two-time-nba-all-star-isaiah-thomas/n-6185701|website=OurSportsCentral.com|date=January 28, 2025|access-date=January 28, 2025}} scoring 40 points in his first appearance back with the team.{{cite web|title=Ex-All-Star Thomas scores 40 in G League return|url=https://www.espn.com.au/nba/story/_/id/43606546/isaiah-thomas-scores-40-points-return-nba-g-league|website=ESPN.com|date=January 29, 2025|access-date=January 29, 2025}}

National team career

In April 2018, Thomas was selected to the 35-player 2018–20 USA men's national team roster{{cite news |author1=Matt Borelli |title=Lakers' Isaiah Thomas Named To 2018–20 USA Men's National Team Roster |url=https://lakersnation.com/lakers-isaiah-thomas-named-to-2018-20-usa-mens-national-team-roster/2018/04/10/ |access-date=February 20, 2021 |work=lakersnation.com |date=April 10, 2018}} and attended the team's Las Vegas minicamp in July 2018.{{cite news |title=Team USA's 14-man AmeriCup roster features James Nunnally, Isaiah Thomas |url=https://www.eurohoops.net/en/national-teams/1164939/team-usas-14-man-americup-roster-features-james-nunnally-isaiah-thomas/ |access-date=February 20, 2021 |work=Eurohoops.net |date=February 2, 2021}} In February 2021, he was selected to the 14-player roster for the final round of the 2022 FIBA AmeriCup qualifiers.{{cite news |title=Isaiah Thomas, Joe Johnson headline U.S. roster for AmeriCup qualifying |url=https://nba.nbcsports.com/2021/02/03/isaiah-thomas-joe-johnson-headline-u-s-roster-for-americup-qualifying/ |access-date=February 20, 2021 |work=NBC Sports |date=February 3, 2021}} On February 19, in his first competitive game in over a year, Thomas scored 19 points in a 93–77 victory over Bahamas.{{cite news |title=Isaiah Thomas returns to score 19 points as US beats Bahamas |url=https://www.nba.com/news/isaiah-thomas-returns-to-score-19-points-as-us-beats-bahamas |access-date=February 20, 2021 |publisher=National Basketball Association |date=February 20, 2021}} He followed it up the day after by scoring nine points, all in the first quarter, in a 96–75 victory against Mexico.{{cite news |author1=Jacob Camenker |title=Highlights: Isaiah Thomas has beautiful no-look pass in Team USA's dominating win over Mexico |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/highlights-isaiah-thomas-beautiful-no-224906651.html |access-date=February 21, 2021 |work=Yahoo Sports |date=February 20, 2021 |archive-date=June 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618043005/https://sports.yahoo.com/highlights-isaiah-thomas-beautiful-no-224906651.html |url-status=dead }}

In November 2021, Thomas, along with Justin Anderson, joined the USA men's basketball roster for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers. Both of the players were injury replacements for Frank Mason III and DaQuan Jeffries.{{Cite web|title=Isaiah Thomas returning to USA Basketball for qualifying|url=https://www.nba.com/news/isaiah-thomas-returning-to-usa-basketball-for-qualifying|access-date=November 26, 2021|publisher=National Basketball Association}}

Career statistics

=NBA=

==Regular season==

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2011}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Sacramento

| 65 || 37 || 25.5 || .448 || .379 || .832 || 2.6 || 4.1 || .8 || .1 || 11.5

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2012}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Sacramento

| 79 || 62 || 26.9 || .440 || .358 || .882 || 2.0 || 4.0 || .8 || .0 || 13.9

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2013}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Sacramento

| 72 || 54 || 34.7 || .453 || .349 || .850 || 2.9 || 6.3 || 1.3 || .1 || 20.3

| style="text-align:left;" rowspan=2|{{nbay|2014}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Phoenix

| 46 || 1 || 25.7 || .426 || .391 || .872 || 2.4 || 3.7 || 1.0 || .1 || 15.2

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| 21 || 0 || 25.9 || .411 || .345 || .861 || 2.1 || 5.4 || .6 || .0 || 19.0

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2015}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| style="background:#cfecec;"| 82* || 79 || 32.2 || .428 || .359 || .871 || 3.0 || 6.2 || 1.1 || .1 || 22.2

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2016}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| 76 || 76 || 33.8 || .463 || .379 || .909 || 2.7 || 5.9 || .9 || .2 || 28.9

| style="text-align:left;" rowspan=2|{{nbay|2017}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Cleveland

| 15 || 14 || 27.1 || .361 || .253 || .868 || 2.1 || 4.5 || .6 || .1 || 14.7

| style="text-align:left;"|L.A. Lakers

| 17 || 1 || 26.8 || .383 || .327 || .921 || 2.1 || 5.0 || .4 || .1 || 15.6

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2018}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Denver

| 12 || 0 || 15.1 || .343 || .279 || .630 || 1.1 || 1.9 || .4 || .1 || 8.1

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2019}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Washington

| 40 || 37 || 23.1 || .403 || .413 || .816 || 1.7 || 3.7 || .3 || .2 || 12.2

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2020}}

| style="text-align:left;"|New Orleans

| 3 || 0 || 16.1 || .333 || .250 || 1.000 || 1.3 || 1.7 || .3 || .0 || 7.7

| style="text-align:left;" rowspan=3|{{nbay|2021}}

| style="text-align:left;"|L.A. Lakers

| 4 || 1 || 25.2 || .308 || .227 || .727 || 2.0 || 1.5 || .0 || .5 || 9.3

| style="text-align:left;"|Dallas

| 1 || 0 || 13.3 || .375 || .000 || {{sort|-|—}} || .0 || 4.0 || .0 || .0 || 6.0

| style="text-align:left;"|Charlotte

| 17 || 0 || 12.9 || .433 || .397 || .933 || 1.2 || 1.4 || .4 || .2 || 8.3

| style="text-align:left;"|{{nbay|2023}}

| style="text-align:left;"|Phoenix

| 6 || 0 || 3.2 || .300 || .500 || {{sort|-|—}} || .0 || .5 || .0 || .0 || 1.3

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career

| 556 || 362 || 28.0 || .434 || .363 || .872 || 2.4 || 4.8 || .8 || .1 || 17.5

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|All-Star

| 2 || 0 || 18.9 || .423 || .333 || 1.000 || 2.0 || 2.0 || .5 || 0 || 14.5

==Play-in==

| style="text-align:left;"| 2022

| style="text-align:left;"| Charlotte

| 1 || 0 || 6.0 || .250 || 1.000 || {{sort|-|–}} || 2.0 || 1.0 || .0 || .0 || 3.0

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan=2| Career

| 1 || 0 || 6.0 || .250 || 1.000 || {{sort|-|–}} || 2.0 || 1.0 || .0 || .0 || 3.0

==Playoffs==

| style="text-align:left;"|2015

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| 4 || 0 || 29.8 || .333 || .167 || .969 || 3.0 || 7.0 || .8 || .0 || 17.5

| style="text-align:left;"|2016

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| 6 || 6 || 36.6 || .395 || .283 || .809 || 3.0 || 5.0 || .7 || .8 || 24.2

| style="text-align:left;"|2017

| style="text-align:left;"|Boston

| 15 || 15 || 34.7 || .425 || .333 || .820 || 3.1 || 6.7 || .9 || .1 || 23.3

| style="text-align:left;"|2024

| style="text-align:left;"|Phoenix

| 1 || 0 || 3.6 || .000 || .000 || {{sort|-|—}} || .0 || .0 || .0 || .0 || .0

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career

| 26 || 21 || 33.2 || .404 || .301 || .842 || 3.0 || 6.1 || .8 || .3 || 21.7

=NBA G League=

==Regular season==

| style="text-align:left;"|2021–22

| style="text-align:left;"|Grand Rapids

| 3 || 3 || 37.5 || .521 || .459 || .783 || 3.7 || 6.7 || .3 || .0 || 41.3

| style="text-align:left;"|2023–24

| style="text-align:left;"|Salt Lake City

| 4 || 4 || 36.9 || .407 || .446 || .909 || 3.0 || 5.3 || 1.3 || .0 || 32.5

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career

| 7 || 7 || 37.1 || .459 || .452 || .844 || 3.3 || 5.9 || .9 || .0 || 36.3

=College=

| style="text-align:left;"|2008–09

| style="text-align:left;"|Washington

| 35 || 34 || 28.4 || .418 || .291 || .686 || 3.0 || 2.6 || 1.1 || .1 || 15.5

| style="text-align:left;"|2009–10

| style="text-align:left;"|Washington

| 35 || 35 || 31.1 || .415 || .327 || .732 || 3.9 || 3.2 || 1.1 || .1 || 16.9

| style="text-align:left;"|2010–11

| style="text-align:left;"|Washington

| 35 || 35 || 31.9 || .445 || .349 || .719 || 3.5 || 6.1 || 1.3 || .1 || 16.8

|- class="sortbottom"

| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career

| 105 || 104 || 30.5 || .426 || .322 || .736 || 3.5 || 4.0 || 1.2 || .1 || 16.4

Personal life

Thomas' sister, Chyna, died in a one-car accident on Interstate 5 in Federal Way, Washington, on April 15, 2017.{{cite news |last=Sailor |first=Craig |url=http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article144846379.html |title=NBA star Isaiah Thomas' sister killed in Federal Way accident on I-5 |work=The News Tribune |date=April 15, 2017 |access-date=April 15, 2017}}{{Cite web |title=Isaiah Thomas's sister killed in Washington car accident {{!}} Fox Sports |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nba/isaiah-thomass-sister-killed-in-washington-car-accident |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=amp.foxsports.com}}

Thomas and his wife, Kayla, have three children together.{{Cite web |date=2017-09-06 |title=This Is for Boston {{!}} By Isaiah Thomas |url=https://www.theplayerstribune.com/articles/isaiah-thomas-trade-celtics-cavaliers |access-date=2024-03-05 |website=The Players' Tribune |language=en-US}}