NBA Rumors: Derrick Jones Jr., Clippers Agree to $30M Contract After Paul George Exit
July 1, 2024
Derrick Jones Jr. is headed to Los Angeles.
Jones and the Los Angeles Clippers have agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract in free agency, according to The Athletic and Stadium's Shams Charania.
The news comes after it was revealed Paul George would be exiting the franchise as a free agent this summer.
While Jones won't be a complete replacement for George, he could at least help ease the burden left by his departure. He's coming off a strong season in Dallas where he averaged 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds and an assist per game while playing 23.5 minutes per game.
Jones was a starter for the Mavericks during their Finals run and was a solid contributor. He showed flashes of being a consistent scorer through both the regular season and the playoffs, and he'll be looking to reach the next level with the Clippers this year.
Los Angeles still has some work to do in free agency this offseason after landing Jones. The Clippers handled Kawhi Leonard's contract during the regular season, signing him to a three-year extension, and they gave James Harden a two-year, $70 million deal on Sunday.
Los Angeles is reportedly looking to find a trade for Russell Westbrook after he exercised his $4 million player option.
It's fair to assume the Clippers will need another piece to compete for a championship after last year's group fell short in the first round, so Los Angeles will likely be active in both the trade and free agent markets over the next few weeks.
