5 potential ripple effects from the Kyrie Irving trade

4. Isiah Thomas was an All-Star last year for the Celtics. Will the Cavaliers pay the undersized point guard’s next big contract?

People are around the league are pointing to Isiah Thomas’ contract situation as a big reason Danny Ainge and the Celtics were ready to trade him. He was the face of the Celtics franchise last season, and a big reason for their success. He is also 29-years-old and coming off a major hip injury.

While he is undersized, the heart and passion he plays with cannot be understated. This is one of the reasons Celtics fans fell in love with the guy. However, that lack of size, at a position loaded with talent, is a scary proposition for anyone looking at a five-year-deal for a 29-year-old. Thomas will be a free agent at the end of next season and likely seeking a max deal.

Brad Stevens has already expressed caution towards Thomas’ return from injury, which shut him down for last season’s Eastern Conference Finals matchup against his new teammates.

Thomas has not hidden his desire to get paid, either. He has been playing the last four years on what some have called the best value deal in the NBA. The Cavaliers could still give Thomas the max contract he desires, especially if LeBron James leaves. Thomas would allow the Cavs to keep a face of the franchise and a player that fans will surely enjoy.

Thomas and teammate Kevin Love also played on the same AAU team. They are still considered to be friends. This could be the next “big two” in Cleveland after LeBron’s departure. That is assuming the Cavaliers do not finally pull the trigger on a Kevin Love deal now.