A Case For Tyus Jones
Tyus Jones faces a crucial season ahead of him. He needs to prove his worth to Tom Thibodeau and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With this season over, the Timberwolves have a busy off-season ahead of them. Who is staying, going and arriving on the Wolves roster is anyone’s guess, but here is a case for Tyus Jones.
Jones was traded to the Wolves in 2015 after he was selected with the 24th pick in the draft. He has sat third on the point guard depth chart this season behind Ricky Rubio and Kris Dunn and hasn’t seen too much game time. Jones has appeared in 60 games this season, averaging 12.9 minutes and 3.5 points. While these stats aren’t phenomenal, Jones has made some big plays throughout the season.
Jones hit a game-winner against Toronto in early February, coming through with a big 3-pointer for the Wolves.
This play showcased Jones’ ability to perform under pressure and provide big plays when the Wolves need it most.
In the last game of the season, Tyus Jones was given 28 minutes of game-time and managed a career-best 17 points on 67 percent shooting, including 3-for-4 from 3-point range.
Let’s not forget Jones’ incredible performance in the summer league.
Tyus Jones picked up the Summer League MVP award while leading the Timberwolves to the championship, which they lost in overtime to the Chicago Bulls.
If the Timberwolves acquire another point guard in the offseason, it is likely Jones will either be pushed down further on the depth chart or waived.
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The team has exercised his option for next season, and hold an option for the year after, but it is yet to be seen if Tom Thibodeau sees a use for him.
The fact Thibodeau provided Jones and Dunn with playing time in the final game of the season says to me that he was evaluating both players and letting them prove to him they’re an asset to the team.
Tyus Jones is more ready to lead a team than Kris Dunn. If Rubio were to be injured again early next season, I would rather see Jones given the starting spot and Dunn come off the bench.
Jones seems like a higher-caliber player who has the skills necessary to lead the Wolves’ second unit. With some more work this offseason, Jones can improve his game and perhaps prove to Thibodeau that he is worthy of a higher place on the point guard depth-chart.
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Tyus Jones has proved he deserves a spot on the Timberwolves roster next season. If he fits into Thibodeau’s plan he may just keep that roster spot and keep developing into a great point guard.