NBA: How major injuries to star players has impacted the 2017-18 season

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BOSTON, MA – MAY 19: (EDITORS NOTE: Retransmission with alternate crop.) Isaiah Thomas #4 of the Boston Celtics reacts in the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Two of the 2017 NBA Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden on May 19, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

Injury

Isaiah Thomas has yet to play this season due to a torn labrum in his hip that he did not have surgery on during the offseason. The lingering hip problem is a bit of a mystery and it is still unknown what the long-term effects of the injury will be.

Impact

Generously listed at 5-foot-9, Thomas is a dynamic scorer who relies heavily on athleticism to create space both with and without the ball. He also uses his quickness and explosion to get to the rim and finish inside.

The fact that the Boston Celtics decided to move on from the All-NBA point guard suggests that they are not confident in his ability to fully rebound from the injury. Thomas is also up for a new contract after this season and he has repeatedly stated that he expects a max deal.

He might end up being disappointed when he hits the open market this summer. We will have to see how he performs when he finally suits up for Cleveland, but small point guards tend to fall off earlier than some of their larger counterparts. It is unlikely that a team is going to want to commit to paying Thomas a huge salary when he is well into his 30’s.

Thomas has resumed basketball activities and has even participated in four-on-four drills. It is still uncertain when he will return to the court, but it will be a welcome return for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have been playing much better as of late.

Thomas will not fix the Cavaliers’ noted defensive issues (23rd in defensive rating) but he will take a large portion of the playmaking burden off of LeBron James’ shoulders. If he is healthy and performing at a level close to where he was last year, the Cavs should be able to get through the East come playoff time and possibly challenge Golden State.

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