Isaiah Thomas continues G League dominance amid pending NBA return

The 35-year-old sharpshooter connected on five three-pointers at a 45.5 percent clip while contributing three rebounds and four assists. His performance reinforced what many already knew — despite his age and past injuries, Thomas remains a dynamic offensive weapon.

He hopes his latest G League resurgence will earn him yet another shot in the NBA.

A familiar path back to the NBA

Thomas has spent the past few years battling for one more chance in the G League, using it as a launching pad for potential call-ups. 

Most recently, he had a short stint with the Phoenix Suns at the end of the 2023-24 season, but his time in the Valley was brief. Appearing in just six games, Thomas averaged 1.6 points in 3.2 minutes per contest — hardly enough of an opportunity to prove he still belongs.

Yet, history suggests he won’t have to wait long for another chance. The 5-foot-9 guard has used the G League as a springboard, suiting up for both the Stars and the Grand Rapids Gold, the Denver Nuggets' affiliate, hoping to force his way back into the NBA.

Thomas has been nothing short of dominant across nine G League appearances since the 2021-22 season. He has averaged 36 points, 3.2 rebounds and 5.9 assists while shooting 44.7 percent from three-point range, knocking down 5.7 triples per game. 

In previous stints, he only needed a handful of games before NBA teams came calling — three games in 2021-22, four in 2023-24 — and his current level of play suggests that history could repeat itself.

Will another NBA team take a chance?

With injuries piling up around the league, teams needing backcourt depth may look to add a proven scorer like Thomas. Contenders searching for veteran leadership and instant offense off the bench could also be intrigued by his ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor.

The demand for G League call-ups has been high this season — 22 players have already been signed to NBA contracts through the 2024-25 campaign. As the season progresses and teams reshuffle their rosters, Thomas will likely be near the top of the list for a potential return.

For now, he remains focused on dominating the G League. But if his past is any indication, his next NBA opportunity may not be far away.