Celtics' Thomas willing to wait for new contract so team can focus on free agents
If the Eastern Conference finals proved anything to the Boston Celtics, it's that they're still a big piece or two away from really giving the Cleveland Cavaliers a run for their money in the playoffs, even though they finished atop the standings with the better record.
All-Star point guard Isaiah Thomas realizes the Celtics need more help, and is willing to do whatever it takes to make that a reality.
"We need the best possible player that's gonna help us win, and I'm with that," Thomas said Friday, according to ESPN's Chris Forsberg. "Anything Danny (Ainge) and this organization need me to do to help bring even more talent to this city, I'm all for that. I want to win a championship and being so close to getting to the Finals, that makes you want it that much more.
"I'm all help if they need it. I'll be around."
Related: Thomas wants to stay 'long term' with Celtics
Such assistance from Thomas could come in the form of him waiting until he hits unrestricted free agency in 2018 before signing a new, more lucrative deal to remain in Boston. The 28-year-old is eligible to sign an extension this summer as he enters the final year of a four-year, $27-million contract, but appears willing to bypass that so the Celtics have more wiggle room to strengthen their roster.
"No, that time will come," said Thomas. "Whatever happens, happens. I've proved myself. The world knows what I bring to the table and I can't do anything to control anything else. So whatever happens this summer with contracts, it happens. If not, then we'll wait until next summer and then we'll see where we go.
"(An extension) means more money? Yeah, I would love that. But if it don't happen, I'm the last person to be bothered by that. I know everything happens for a reason so, when my time comes, I know it will come and God will bless me."
Thomas had a career year in 2016-17, finishing third overall in scoring (28.9 points per game) on 46.3 percent shooting, while also chipping in 5.9 assists and 2.7 rebounds in 33.8 minutes - sensational numbers for someone earning just $6.5 million.
His playoff run came to an untimely end in Game 2 against Cleveland, though, as Thomas re-aggravated a preexisting hip injury that sidelined him for good.