Derrick Jones Jr. has been a revelation for the Dallas Mavericks this season, outplaying his veteran minimum contract to become a key starter during their NBA playoff run. Despite his impressive performance, Jones understands that the team’s financial limitations may impact his future with the franchise.
According to his agent, Aaron Turner, Jones has expressed his desire to return to the Mavericks. He cites his strong relationships with his teammates, head coach Jason Kidd , and the front office, including president Nico Harrison and Matt Riccardi.
“He loves his teammates, he loves Jason Kidd, he really likes the front office, (Mavericks president) Nico (Harrison) and Matt Riccardi,” Jones agent Aaron Turner told The Athletic . “He wants to be back.”
Jones’ statistics speak for themselves. He started in 66 of 76 games, averaging a career-high 8.6 points per game on 48% shooting, including a career-best 34% from three-point range. In 10 playoff games, he has upped his scoring to 8.9 points per game while also contributing 1.5 blocks per game.
As a free agent, Jones’ future with the Mavericks remains uncertain, but his commitment to the team and his desire to return are clear.
Jones has been a pivotal contributor to the Mavericks’ defensive turnaround. He often guards tough assignments, swarms around the half-court with his athleticism and length, and proves to be an essential part of Dallas’ roster alongside Doncic and Irving.
If the Mavericks cannot retain Jones in free agency, they will be limited in their options to replace him. They may need to turn to another low-risk, “prove-it” deal with minimal cap space outside the taxpayer mid-level exception.
The Mavericks are limited to only having the 58th overall selection in this year’s NBA Draft due to the final of two first-round picks being sent to the New York Knicks as part of a trade featuring Kristaps Porzingis that occurred in 2019.
Dallas experienced significant success by making low-risk roster additions beyond just adding Jones last summer; they signed Dante Exum to a two-year contract, and he delivered a career year even after spending multiple seasons in the EuroLeague.
If Jones chooses to re-sign, it’ll be simply the Mavericks’ offseason significantly.
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