Los Angeles Lakers Make Decision on Isaiah Thomas

The Los Angeles Lakers had to bring in new players to make things easier for healthy players. The NBA struggled with a big surge in new COVID-19 cases. It was a big blow for the team. They had already lost Anthony Davis to an injury. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka made a decision and brought NBA veteran Isaiah Thomas to the team.

IT signed a 10-day contract with the team. He had a good start of the short stint but struggled in the following game. Los Angeles is now parting ways with the veteran. In other words, Thomas won’t get a second 10-day deal with team.

Shams Charania from The Athletic confirmed the new decision.

The Lakers will be able to sign another replacement player as Rajon Rondo entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols on Sunday. No, they aren’t bringing Thomas back.

The team signed Thomas out of the G League as a replacement player. He hit 19 points off the bench in the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. It was the very first game in his second stint with the Lakers. This performance earned him a start for the game against the Chicago Bulls. Thomas finished the game with 13 points.

Lakers’ opponents became aware of the lack of defenders to cover for Thomas and attacked him right away. The Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs used the opportunity to neutralize Thomas. The Lakers signed Darren Collison right before Thomas’ deal expired. They gave IT a DNP-CD for Christmas Day game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Lakers front office makes expected decision on Isaiah Thomas

LA decided to cut ties with Thomas for a reason. His contract happened at the right time because the Lakers really needed an extra pair of hands. Things changed significantly in the meantime. Russell Westbrook didn’t miss too much time and Thomas’ service wasn’t that important with Broddie on the floor.

Broodie cleared to return from the NBA’s health and safety protocols but Thomas was already offered a deal. They couldn’t just leave him out in the rain. Thomas got his chance and that’s all.