Lots and lots of Isaiah Thomas love (links & quotes)

A lot has been written about Isaiah Thomas and his return to the Garden this week. So much so that I figured I’d post some links and quotes dedicated just to him.

Chad Finn (Globe):

In retrospect, it’s a blessing that he didn’t get his homecoming salute in the shadow of Paul Pierce Night last February, an unnecessary controversy at the time when he returned to town during his brief, ill-fitting time as a Cavalier. He’s not within a three-quarter-court heave of Pierce in terms of his place in Celtics lore. We know this. But any cynicism you might hear regarding the ovation he received lands somewhere between ignorant and pathetic.

Mark Murphy (Herald):

“It’s just awesome. It’s well-documented what he’s done here,” Irving added. “For me, it’s a unique position because I’m the one who got traded for him, so I just want to see him do well. We got drafted in the same year, he’s dealt with a lot of BS in his career just trying to be the underdog all the time instead of getting the opportunity he deserves, and Boston gave him that opportunity and he flourished. Unfortunately he had that hip injury, but he’ll be back at the top of his game in no time. You don’t ever have to worry about a talented guy like that finding a job in the NBA and making an impact somewhere.”

Chris Forsberg (NBC Boston):

Thomas’ teams — and specifically that much-romanticized 2016-17 squad — were a gritty bunch of overachievers who only went down kicking and screaming, routinely overcoming adversity, and whatever the team lacked in overall talent, by giving every ounce of effort and fight they had. That team had Thomas endlessly professing his love of all things Boston and embracing everything about the city and the franchise.

This year’s squad oozes with talent and potential, and yet so frequently seems unable — or unwilling — to harness it all.

Matt Ellentuck (SBNation):

Thomas is not likely to return with the Nuggets next season, as he’s already fallen out of the team’s rotation. Will Ainge and the Celtics want to sign IT and bring this drama full circle? There’d certainly be reason if Boston falls flat in the playoffs like they have in the regular season.

“You never know,” Thomas told the Globe. “You can’t predict the future. My options are always open for anybody. I’m a Denver Nugget now, but I’m a free agent at the end of the season, and you never know what can happen. Who knows?”