Miami Heat: 3 reasons keeping Derrick Jones Jr. is a good move
By Derek Hryn
2. Athleticism and defensive versatility
DJJ quickly became one of the unlikely stars in Summer League a few weeks ago, and it mostly had to do with the murderous throwdowns that he put on display.
His dunking prowess was first noticed in the 2017 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
Although finishing at the rim is his strong suit, he’s a player who’s capable of utilizing his physicality to reach greater measures — both offensively and defensively.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra noted at the end of the year that Jones has potential at becoming a defensive stopper, and with the league starting to once again embrace the small ball lineups, he could guard a multitude of positions.
After seeing the success that he had on the floor this summer, Spoelstra, as well as the front office, could be onto something. Jones’ 6’7″, 190-pound frame will surely make him an option to defend an opposing team’s best scorer by the time next season rolls around.