LeBron James and Isaiah Thomas will be a work in progress in more ways than one this season. They won’t get to play with each other for a while still, as Thomas isn’t ready to return after his injury.
But that doesn’t mean the two can’t get to know one another better. In fact, James is confident that their friendship is strengthening despite Thomas being on the shelf to start the season.
Via Cleveland.com:
“(The relationship is) growing every day. It’s growing every day,” James said on Friday. “Obviously seeing the ‘slow grind’ that he’s going through right now, which he calls it, it’s good to get out there and get some work with him as well. So, I can’t wait to get him out there.”
James admitted he didn’t know much about Thomas, or knew him very well, before the trade. That’s not all that surprising, really, as it’s impossible to be friends with everyone and Thomas played on a rival team. But getting to know someone you’re not playing with every day can be a bit tougher than it often is to learn about a new teammate. And there’s plenty to get to know between the two.
James, Wade, and Thomas have been seen working together in practice, and James and Thomas have been supportive of one another publicly on Instagram, but all of this will be a process for the Cavaliers. Friendship – and teamwork – takes time.
