Since news of the blockbuster trade proposal that will send Isaiah Thomas to Cleveland and Kyrie Irving to Boston, concerns of Thomas’ season-ending hip injury have lingered in the minds of the Cleveland faithful.
Despite getting what most consider to be the better end of the deal, the Cavs have expressed concern over Thomas’ injury and will reportedly be seeking an additional asset in order to not veto the deal. Thomas underwent a physical in Cleveland on Friday where officials raised concern over the scope of the injury as well as the 4-time All-Star’s expected timetable for return.
While Boston maintains that they were transparent in discussing Thomas’ injury, Cleveland could argue that the Celtics downplayed the injury.
The deadline for all players involved in the trade to pass physical examination is 10 a.m. ET Thursday, per NBA rules.
The current proposed deal sends Thomas, along with Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and the Nets’ 2018 first-round pick to Cleveland in exchange for Kyrie. Boston also has control of a number of second-round picks that could be factored into the deal. Those hoping for Jayson Tatum can forget about it; Boston has no interest in dealing him for Kyrie.
After all, how awkward would it be for Kyrie to walk back into the Cavs locker room after a vetoed deal?