After two ten-day contracts with the Phoenix Suns, the team has decided to sign him for the rest of the season, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. Thomas, who has played four games for Phoenix this season, will be eligible for the postseason roster.
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We haven’t seen much of I.T. since his return to the Valley of the Sun, and that’s partly by purpose. Head coach Frank Vogel knows what he has in Thomas, an experienced leader with extensive NBA experience. But Vogel is nearing the end of the regular season, fine-tuning his rotations for the upcoming postseason.
As much as fans want to see Thomas play, he is not part of Vogel’s rotation plans. You won’t see every player receive an opportunity to play in every game, let alone for important minutes. Sure, some would like to see Thomas earn more backup point guard minutes, especially given the Suns’ struggles in that position. But, if it is not sustainable, what is the “why”? It’s too late in the season to run players, strategies, and rotations.
The Suns will maintain Thomas as a “break glass in case of emergency” option. If the Suns suffer an injury in the postseason, Thomas will be expected to fill the void and perform at his peak during the most difficult circumstances.
This should not detract from the redemption story that is I.T. Following severe career injuries, he has fought his way back into an NBA roster and will now be a member of a squad with high playoff expectations. All he can do is stay ready.