Timberwolves Power Rankings: Butler blow soils solid stretch

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – JANUARY 12: Tyus Jones #1 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends against the New York Knicks during the game on January 12, 2018 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

7. Tyus Jones (8)

Season stats: 18.0 MPG – 4.9 PPG – 2.7 APG – 1.2 SPG – 45.8% FG – 35.4% 3PT – 89.1% FT

Weekly stats: 14.9 MPG – 5.0 PPG – 2.0 APG – 1.3 SPG – 53.8% FG – 44.4% 3PT – 100% FT

Despite playing lower minutes than usual due to Jeff Teague‘s purple patch, Tyus Jones was his usual efficient, effective self over the last four games.

He has proven throughout the season that he can be called on as one of the most reliable backup point guards in the league, mixing his intense basketball IQ with a new found scoring sense and an improving jump shot.

The 21-year-old kicked off the power rankings week with a solid night in Minnesota against the Lakers, dropping 8 points (3-4 FG, 2-3 3PT), two assists and two steals. The duo of long-range bombs was an encouraging sign for Jones, who has been streaky throughout the season and badly needs a hot streak from outside in the last 18 games.

The diminutive guard followed the Lakers game up with a pair of low scoring nights against the Rockets and Bulls, netting just 5 points on 2-7 shooting over the two-game stretch. He did chip in 6 assists and 3 steals, however. As usual, Jones was much better on the eye test than the box score as he seems to have a calming effect even on a bench that has been one of the least consistent and most frantic in the NBA.

Tyus Stones finished up the week with another sound showing in Sacramento, hitting both his shots (including another 3-pointer) for his 7 points. With Jimmy Butler down and Tom Thibodeau shortening his rotation, now is the perfect time for Tyus Jones to take another step up.

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