With the Celtics expected to active in free agency this offseason, Danny Ainge has reportedly asked for Isaiah Thomas‘ input during the process.
“Danny said if there’s any free agent out there I’m interested in, to let him know,” Thomas told The Boston Globe. “That has me excited. For him to ask for my input means a lot, because it means I’m definitely, right now, a part of the future, and they also value your word and what you think about the game of basketball.
“It means a lot, and it’s a mutual respect we have. Now, hopefully, we can get a few guys.”
With a void at the center position, this year’s Sixth Man of the Year said that he would like to see the Celtics bring in a rim-protector.
“A defensive-minded player,” Thomas said. “It’d be nice to get one of those in the draft. A lot of the big men out there could definitely help us out. But I know Danny is always up to something.”
After being traded from the Suns midway through the season, Thomas quickly became an integral part of coach Brad Stevens‘ pick-and-roll offense. He led the team in scoring (17.5 points per game) and assists (seven per game).
When asked about his recruiting pitch to potential free agents, Thomas kept it simple.
“The history behind the Boston Celtics is what you want,” he said. “And the city of Boston is definitely a sports city. They love their players and support their players. Really, everything you want in a basketball team and organization is here.
“It might not be Miami or LA with the weather, but what’s most important is the culture. And I can only imagine, when we really get good, what the city would be like.”