The Dallas Mavericks are currently tied with the Oklahoma City Thunder 2-2 in the second round of the NBA Finals. As the team aims for their second Western Conference Finals appearance in two years, they are playing some of their best basketball of the season. Led by the explosive backcourt duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have been rolling this postseason. Fortunately for the team, all but one starter in their rotation is under contract past this season. And the one exception, Derrick Jones Jr., does not appear to be on his way out anytime soon. According to Jones’ agent, Aaron Turner, the 27-year-old “wants to be back” in Dallas after the season.
“He loves his teammates, he loves Jason Kidd, he really likes the front office, (Mavericks president) Nico (Harrison) and Matt Riccardi,” Turner said. “He wants to be back.”
After playing for four teams in seven seasons before signing with the Mavericks last summer, Jones 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 per game. Furthermore, he shot 48.3% from the field and 34.3% from the three-point line. Jones has also started all 10 games the Mavericks have played so far this playoff run.
Dallas Mavericks Starter Wants to Remain With the Team
Derrick Jones Jr. Will Likely Still Test the Market
Although he reportedly wants to return to Dallas this offseason, Jones will still likely take his time before making a decision. According to Turner, the plan is for Jones to test the market in free agency this offseason. Furthermore, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said he “definitely” wants the team to re-sign Jones.
Turner expects Jones to test the market, just like anyone in his situation would. They hope Dallas can meet them at a price that makes sense for both sides. “We understand the business (and that) there’s other teams that can maybe pay him more,” Kidd said. “But we definitely want him back.
In the midst of the most successful season of his career, it makes sense for Jones to see what his market might look like. However, it seems likely Jones will stay in Dallas regardless.
What Derrick Jones Jr. Brings to Dallas
Jones’ athleticism and impressive defensive tools make him valuable to the Mavericks. Kidd spoke about Jones’ defensive ability and why he “always” wanted him on the team.
“What I saw was his ability to guard,” Kidd said. “It was way before we signed him. I saw him up close in different (games) and always thought, ‘Man, it’d be nice if we could get him on our side.’”
Furthermore, although he is a streaky scorer, he can provide a boost on offense when he is 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 his work ethic as one of his biggest strengths.
“I’ve put in a lot of work behind the scenes. Thus far in my career, I haven’t got the recognition that I think I deserve, and I feel like this year is going to be the year. “I’m going to shoot the ball whenever I get open shots, drive whenever I get the open lane, and play simple basketball.
