When it comes to Detroit Pistons In franchise history, Isiah Thomas is one of the greatest players to ever wear the franchise’s colors. Despite all he accomplished during his 13-year career, the Hall of Fame point guard has been overlooked in some recent all-time rankings.
During his appearance on NBA Today, Kendrick Perkins compiled his list of the top five point guards in NBA history. Among the players not on that list is Thomas. Perkins’ top three is comprised of Steph Curry, Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson, while Russell Westbrook and John Stockton round out the top five.
Hey @KendrickPerkins west @IsiahThomas he is one of the top 5 PGs in NBA history ‼️ pic.twitter.com/mZMILtLgpw
— Pistons Talk (@Pistons__Talk) August 14, 2024
Thomas spent his entire career with the Pistons after being drafted second overall in 1981. In 979 total games, he averaged 19.2 points per game, 3.6 rebounds per game and 9.3 assists per game.
The Pistons legend has the same track record as most of those players, which makes him worth at least considering on Perkins’ list. Thomas finished his career as a 12-time All-Star, made five All-NBA teams, led Detroit to two championships and was named Finals MVP in 1990.
Stockton and Westbrook are the two players Thomas could easily fit on this list. While Westbrook has an MVP trophy and the triple-double award, he has never had the same playoff success as Thomas. Stockton has more longevity than him, but he also hasn’t had the playoff accolades needed to put him on an all-time list.
Even if Perkins doesn’t share that sentiment, Thomas has his place among the greatest point guards of all time. He was the leader of an iconic team that won at the highest level during one of the league’s most competitive eras.
