Is isaiah thomas’ career over due to the hip injury that he suffered last season while he was still with the Boston Celtics? This question surfaced after Jason Lloyd of The Athletic reported that Thomas’ hip injury may be more severe than simply a torn labrum. A source told Lloyd that Thomas is dealing more than just a tear, adding that he has some secondary issues in the hip that he has played with for years now. These issues include loss of cartilage and some arthritis that complicate the healing process of his injured hip. The source added that the question is not when it will heal, but if it will even heal at all.
The issue about Thomas’ injured hip surfaced when he was traded by the Celtics to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Kyrie Irving. When Thomas underwent a physical in Cleveland, it was determined that he could miss more time than expected. The latest development forced the Cavaliers to ask for additional compensation to seal the trade. The Celtics added a 2020 second-round pick to their earlier package of Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic and the Brooklyn Nets’ 2018 first-round pick to finalize the trade.
Cavs GM still uncertain about Thomas’ comeback
When Thomas was introduced to the media as the newest member of the Cavaliers, team general manager Koby Altman said that the point guard won’t be playing in games anytime soon.
After four months of rest, Altman said Thomas is limited to just treatment and weight room. However, Altman assured that Thomas will not undergo surgery to repair his torn labrum. Last season, the Celtics determined that Thomas’ hip problem will not require surgery and could heal through rest and rehabilitation. Also, Thomas was avoiding surgery because it will affect his value when he turns unrestricted free agent after this season where he expects to get a maximum contract.
Kevin Love expected to step up in Thomas’ absence
According to Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, the Cavaliers have to do some adjustments in order to compete while waiting for Thomas to return. As of now, the Cavaliers only have Derrick Rose, Jose Calderon and Kay Felder as point guards. Rose is currently recovering from a torn meniscus in his left knee and it remains uncertain if he will be ready by training camp on September 26. If ever, LeBron James will temporarily take over playmaking chores while Kevin Love will try to fill the scoring void left by Irving for the meantime.
