Upon signing a contract with the LA Clippers, two-way forward Derrick Jones Jr. understood he was claiming the spot of superstar Paul George. Although fans did not anticipate him to elevate the offense, head coach Tyronn Lue knew he would need Jones Jr. to take over defensively.
So far this season, Jones Jr. has proven his ability to swarm defenses, leaving them in despair until the shot clock runs out. His skill set has propelled the Clippers to one of the top defensive ratings and among the best in points allowed.
Moreover, once George left LA, the Clippers’ mindset was to insert high-end, defensive-minded role players and allow stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard to score the ball effectively. This tactic has guided Lue, even in the games Leonard missed.
However, Jones Jr.’s offensive impact deserves to be credited. Though he has been in a rough slump lately, the eight-year veteran will happily punish teams for leaving him with space to shoot. Off a close-out, Jones Jr. leads with instinct and soars above the rim to finish efficiently.
Nonetheless, Jones Jr.’s success this season has the Mavericks wishing they paid him to his preference. Now, he is in a position to compete for a title against his former squad in Dallas.
LA Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. is everything the Dallas Mavericks wish they had.
Without Kawhi Leonard, Derrick Jones Jr. has been the LA Clippers’ most noteworthy defender. He gives Tyronn Lue a blend of athleticism and awareness the Clippers have not seen in years, and it has shown up in times of need.
In 41 games, Jones Jr. has averaged 10.3 points and 3.4 rebounds in 24.5 minutes per game. Additionally, the UNLV product is shooting 51.2% from the field and 36.0% from three.
Furthermore, Jones Jr. has posted an individual defensive rating of 107.6 this season, close to what the Clippers(107.5) have recorded. This is outrageous, adding to how lucky LA is to have signed him in the offseason.
In fact, the Clippers agreed to sign the 2016 undrafted free agent on a three-year, $30 million deal. This contract was regarded as excellent, as the front office still had room to strengthen their weaknesses.
That said, the Mavericks could utilize a talent like Jones Jr., especially through multiple injuries within their starting lineup. Fortunately for the Clippers, they receive the benefits of his contributions on both ends of the court.