Former All-Star guard Isaiah Thomas is set to join the, the Utah Jazz's G League affiliate, with aspirations of earning another opportunity in the NBA, according to a report by The Athletics' Shams Charania.

Thomas expressed his desire for an NBA return in a December interview, emphasizing his commitment to staying in shape and being prepared for the opportunity, Hoops Rumors reports.

During the 2021/22 season, Thomas had brief stints with the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers through 10-day hardship deals before securing a more extended engagement with the Charlotte Hornets, where he played in a total of 22 games.

However, Thomas did not participate in the league last season, fueling his determination to make a comeback.

Notable Career Highlights and Challenges

Standing at 5 feet 8 inches, Isaiah Thomas initially made his mark in the NBA when he was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2011.

He gained widespread recognition during his three-year tenure with the Boston Celtics from 2014 to 2017, earning two All-Star nods while averaging 24.7 points and 6.0 assists per game.

Thomas became a fan favorite during this period.

In a significant move before the 2017-18 season, Thomas was traded from the Celtics to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Kyrie Irving, orchestrated by then-Celtics executive Danny Ainge, who is now associated with the Utah Jazz's G League, according to Dessert News.

Unfortunately, hip injuries hindered Thomas' performance, leading to subsequent trades to seven different teams.

Jazz at a Crossroads and Thomas' Potential Role

As Isaiah Thomas seeks an opportunity with the Salt Lake City Stars, the Jazz find themselves at a critical juncture with 20 games remaining in the current season.

The team must navigate decisions about the Lauri Markkanen situation and determine their direction for the offseason.

The Jazz face choices between embracing a youth movement for a potential high pick in the 2025 draft or opting for trades and signings to pursue more victories next season, per SB Nation.

With his extensive experience and veteran leadership, Thomas could play a crucial role in mentoring younger players if the Jazz leans towards a youth-focused approach.

However, uncertainties surround Thomas's effectiveness on the court, given his two-year hiatus from professional basketball, age of 35, and a history of injury setbacks.

Isaiah Thomas last appeared in the NBA during the 2021-22 season, featuring in games for the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets.

Danny Ainge, formerly with the Boston Celtics and now an executive with the Jazz, played a pivotal role in acquiring Thomas in 2015 and is familiar with the guard's skill set.

Thomas's peak years occurred during his time with the Celtics, where he earned two All-Star selections and averaged an impressive 28.9 points per game in the 2016-17 season, Yahoo! Sports noted.

Despite injuries derailing his career post-2016-17, there remains optimism about Thomas making a successful NBA comeback.

As the Salt Lake City Stars welcome Isaiah Thomas, the basketball community awaits to see if the former All-Star can overcome challenges and secure another chance in the NBA, potentially contributing to the Utah Jazz's G League or another team.

READ MORE  : Jason Kelce Retires

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Salt Lake City Star Sign Isaiah Thomas To A G League Deal - From Cyro Asseo