Kurt Thomas Returns!

While the Miami Heat's triumphant comeback last night sealed a 2006 finals re-match with the Dallas Mavericks, the real and lasting story was Kurt Thomas and his epic return to the court. Thomas provided a much needed spark in his team's losing effort and as Steve Kerr aptly noted, added a new layer of scoring for the offensively challenged Chicago Bulls.

After sitting out the entire Eastern Conference Finals, Kurt Thomas was called upon due to the injury of Omer Asik. Thomas, a cagey-veteran and the second oldest player in the league, did not disappoint. His four points and eight rebounds in 18 minutes of play were vital to Chicago's success (you know, until they lost). The Bulls would have been cooked from tip-off without Kurt Thomas.

Kurt Thomas has had a long and storied career in the NBA. He's dominated for 15 years, battling in the paint and making a name for himself with nine different teams. Coach Thib needs to embark on some serious self-reflection for not playing Thomas more during this series. It almost certainly cost them a championship ring.

Happy Memorial Day, Kurt Thomas.