Los Angeles, California – After Paul George announced his departure from the LA Clippers, the team wasted no time in securing Derrick Jones Jr. to a three-year, $30 million deal, as confirmed by a league source. With George’s exit, the Clippers were in need of an athletic wing, finding the solution in Jones, who is coming off a strong season with the Dallas Mavericks.
Jones, who started 66 games last season, averaged a career-high 8.6 points and proved to be a reliable defender, shooting 34.3% from beyond the 3-point line. His contributions were instrumental in the Mavericks’ journey to the NBA Finals, where they eliminated the Clippers in six games during the first round of the playoffs.
The Clippers were aware of George’s intention to join another team in free agency, with the Philadelphia 76ers emerging as strong contenders for his signature. Despite the restrictions for tax-paying teams, the Clippers opted not to offer George a maximum extension during the season, leading to his decision to explore other opportunities.
Standing at 6-foot-6, Jones, 27, will be tasked with helping the Clippers fill the void left by George, potentially sharing the responsibility with other players. Known for his defensive versatility, Jones excelled in matchups against 2024 All-Stars this past season, showcasing his ability to guard multiple positions on the court.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Jones could also prove to be a valuable offensive asset for the Clippers, particularly as a lob threat for James Harden. The team recently secured Harden on a two-year, $70 million deal, adding another dimension to their roster for the upcoming season.
The news of Jones’ agreement with the Clippers was first reported by The Athletic. As the team continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the NBA, the addition of Jones and Harden signals their commitment to remaining competitive in a challenging Western Conference.