The Dallas Mavericks are currently tied 2-2 with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the NBA Finals. The team is playing its best basketball this season as it looks to advance to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in two years. Led by the explosive backcourt duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have been on a roll this postseason. Fortunately for the team, all but one of the rotation's starting pitchers are under contract after this season. And the one exception, Derrick Jones Jr., doesn't seem to be planning on retiring anytime soon. According to Jones' agent Aaron Turner, the 27-year-old “wants to return” to Dallas after the season.
“He loves his teammates, he loves Jason Kidd, he really loves the front office, (Mavericks president) Nico (Harrison) and Matt Ricciardi,” Turner said. Ta. “He wants to go back.”
Jones, who played seven seasons and four teams before signing with the Mavericks last summer, has found a home in Dallas. This season, the former slam dunk champion started a career-high 66 games for the Mavericks. In those games, Jones averaged 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1 assist. He also shot 48.3 percent from the field and 34.3 percent from the 3-point line. Jones has also started all 10 games the Mavericks have played so far in the playoffs.
Dallas Mavericks starter wants to stay with team
Derrick Jones Jr. will likely continue to test the market
Jones reportedly wants to return to Dallas this offseason, but it will take some time before he makes a decision. Turner said Jones plans to test the market in free agency this offseason. Additionally, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said the team “absolutely” hopes to re-sign Jones.
Mr. Turner expects Mr. Jones to test the market, just as others in his situation would. They hope Dallas will accommodate them at a price that is reasonable for both parties. “We understand the business and we understand there are other teams that could probably pay him more,” Kidd said. “But we definitely want him back.
It makes sense for Jones, who is in the midst of the most successful season of his career, to think about what his market will be. However, it seems likely that Jones will remain in Dallas regardless.
What Derrick Jones Jr. brings to Dallas
Jones' athleticism and impressive defensive tools make him a valuable asset to the Mavericks. Kidd talked about Jones' defensive ability and why he “always” wanted to have him on the team.
“What I saw was his guard ability,” Kidd said. “That was long before I signed him. I watched him up close in various (games) and always thought, 'I wish I could have him on my side.'
Plus, he's a serial scorer, but he can be an offensive force when he's hot. He also provides high energy and remains one of the best dunkers in the NBA. Additionally, after signing with the Mavericks, Jones pointed out that one of his biggest strengths was his work ethic.
“I've put in a lot of hard work behind the scenes. In my career so far, I've never gotten the recognition that I think I deserve, but I feel like this year is going to be one of those.” “I'm going to shoot the ball whenever I get an open shot, I'm going to drive whenever I get an open lane, and I'm going to play simple basketball.
