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Travel back to February, where Mat Ishbia officially took over the Phoenix Suns

During his introductory press conference, questions on Ishbia's relationship with NBA executive Isiah Thomas were fielded. Ishbia denied some reports that Thomas would be helping the Suns in some sort of fashion.

Thomas has been involved in a handful of controversial happenings since retiring from the league and possessing roles such as an executive and NBA TV analyst. 

His close relationship with Ishbia has still been monitored through the months, and perhaps former Suns point guard Chris Paul unveiled Thomas does indeed have a hand in Phoenix's operations.

"It's just — it's tough," Paul said in a recent interview with the New York Times (h/t CBS Sports).

"Seriously, it is part of the business, and what you realize is that no one owes you anything. No matter how you are with them or what you do, you realize that in this business, nobody owes you anything, as it should be. But when it comes through and my son texts me, I realize that, you know, Mat [Ishbia] and Isiah [Thomas], I guess, just wanted to go in a different direction."

The Suns have quite the large offseason ahead of them. What does the future of Deandre Ayton hold? Will the Suns see any movement in the 2023 NBA Draft? How will the roster fill out with little financial commitment available? 

It appears as if Thomas could have input in those major questions despite reports months ago previously being denied.