Even though 2017 is nearing its end, isaiah thomas still hasn't appeared in a single game for his new team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. Thomas' last NBA game was against the Cavaliers as he played on the Boston Celtics last season. However, Cleveland acquired him, Jae Crowder, and Ante Zizic in the Kyrie Irving trade, and while Crowder and Zizic have played for the team, Thomas is still injured and unable to play.

A few days ago, there were some rumors regarding Isaiah Thomas' return. Reportedly, the point guard is targeting the first week of January for his return, and there's a chance that he might make his Cavaliers debut against his former team.

Even though Thomas rejected these rumors, the timing for his return seems perfect. However, Cleveland might have something else in mind, and that doesn't including playing in the NBA.

Isaiah Thomas' return plan

Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported that Isaiah Thomas is close to his return, but that he may not play for the Cleveland Cavaliers immediately. According to McMenamin, the Cavaliers are planning to have the point guard play with a G League team.

Cleveland Cavaliers' G League affiliate, the Canton Charge, would be Thomas' team for a brief period after he returns. According to ESPN's sources, the Cavaliers want Thomas to participate in a five-on-five scrimmate with the Charge before he plays for the NBA team.

There is a chance that Thomas doesn't join the G League team as a few Charge players might come to the Cavaliers' practice facility to play with Thomas. Regardless of how it happens, the Cavaliers just want their guard to be 100 percent ready before making his debut for the team.

Could he return before 2018?

Cleveland Cavaliers only have four more games left to play this year, including the Christmas day matchup against the Golden State Warriors.

Considering that Isaiah Thomas did not like the recent reports regarding his return, there is a chance that he returns even sooner.

Earlier in the season, there were a few rumors of Thomas possibly returning around Christmas. However, he's been out for a few months, so he probably won't rush anything until he feels he is ready to play.

Thomas spoke to press on Wednesday and commented on his situation. “Not just to be out there and be another body. However long that takes — it might be next week, it might be a week after that. We don’t know and we’re really not trying to put a date on it because it just depends on how my recovery is.”

Latest update

The Cavaliers assigned Isaiah Thomas to their G League affiliate and the point guard will most likely play there until he is 100 ready to return.
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