Derrick Jones Jr.
Derrick Jones Jr. was signed in free agency after he agreed to a two-year deal with the Blazers. He spent last season with the Miami Heat.
This was a significant signing for the Blazers because Jones Jr. adds much-needed value and depth to their second unit. While he isn’t the most decorated offensive player despite his amazing highlight-reel dunks, Jones’ length and athleticism on defense will give the Blazers an edge they were sorely lacking.
He moves his feet well and has good technique and should tag-team with Covington to help the Blazers vastly improve from last year’s 28th defensive ranking. While the Blazers do have a ton of players who can score in bunches, it would serve Jones Jr. to improve his shooting especially from behind the arc as he shot an abysmal 28 percent from deep. How will Jones Jr. fit into Stotts’s style of play?
Jones Jr. is more effective in the open floor and running in transition due to his freakish athleticism and being able to finish over defenders, but there has to be a level of concern about how he will fit into the Blazers halfcourt sets and whether he can make the necessary adjustments.