The Minnesota Timberwolves have had a disappointing season, but could their decision at the point guard spot have gotten just a little bit easier?
Despite Karl-Anthony Towns’ amazing season, the resurgence of Derrick Rose and the solid play of Andrew Wiggins to round out the season, there is still more reason to be hopeful in the Gopher State when it comes to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The young Tyus Jones has been given the opportunity to prove himself as a starter, and Wolves fans have been watching, eager to see their local hero rise once again.
After all, as a youngster, Jones had proven himself victorious, and so many have called him a winner. And isn’t that exactly what the Wolves need?
A Hometown Hero
Born in Burnsville, Minnesota Jones was a Minnesota State High School League champion and was the Minnesota Boys Basketball Gatorade Player of the Year.
Of course, he was also a NCAA National Champion at Duke University in 2015, winning the Final Four Most Outstanding Player award. And, believe it or not, he is still only 22 years old.
Late this season, injuries to Derrick Rose and Jeff Teague, have allowed Jones to give a more extended look at what he might be able to provide as a more permanent starter.
Recent Outstanding Play
There’s no question about it, Jones has played his best season to date.
In March and April, he has proved himself as a worthy starter. First, there was a 13-point breakout in the post-All-Star break win against the Knicks. Then, an impressive 16-point night in a loss to Denver.
Jones also posted 12 points and nine assists against Utah. In Houston, battling a deep team with the leagues top scorer and Chris Paul running the point, Jones once again showed what he is capable of. Even though he didn’t score, he still dished out five assists and grabbed four rebounds in 29 minutes of valuable court time. This effort, against a stellar Rockets team, can give Wolves fans the hope they so dearly need.
Finishing up the season, Jones has continued his great form, with 14 points and 10 assists versus Portland, 15 points and six assists in a win against Dallas, 12 points on over 50 percent shooting against Miami and then he had 10 points and 13 assists with zero turnovers against Russell Westbrook and the Thunder. Then, 11 points, 10 assists and just one turnover against the Raptors.
Could Jones be the missing piece in the Wolves’ starting lineup? Could he, Towns and Wiggins form a trio in the coming seasons that could rise up and march into the playoffs?
Given his progress, solid numbers and increased minutes, one can only hope. But hope can do a lot to spark a team into success and why not put a little faith into a true native, who has watched the Wolves growing up.
As this difficult season winds down, Wolves fans will surely get behind Jones and give him the support he deserves.