NBA training camp is around the corner and the Boston Celtics are entering what looks to be a "reset" this season. Trading away Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers and Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks would suggest this in addition to Jayson Tatum's torn Achilles tendon. Although the team certainly has talented guards, like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Anfernee Simons, President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens has focused on making the roster younger and cheaper.
With more of a focus on the youth, rather than contending for a title, the Celtics have been called to bring back one of their biggest former contributors, fan-favorite Isaiah Thomas. Max Lederman of NBC Boston suggested an Isaiah Thomas reunion as a player or coach.
In three seasons with the Celtics from 2015-17, Thomas averaged 24.7 points, six assists and one steal per game. Thomas gave all he could for the Celtics, playing through injury and personal tragedy. Isaiah Thomas led the Celtics as far as the Eastern Conference finals in 2017, but unfortunately his time as a Celtic ended there after being traded for Kyrie Irving in the offseason that followed.
Thomas hasn't played in the NBA since the 2023-24 season, but has yet to retire. Returning as a player-coach would not only be a feel-good story, but would also help the development of the young guards on Boston's roster.
As far as a spot on the coaching staff is concerned, this option seems unlikely. Joe Mazzulla does not have any open spots on his staff and Mazzulla never worked with Thomas as a player, like Brad Stevens did.