Hoops Habit
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5 NBA players you shouldn’t give up on just yet

By Luke Duffy

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 02: Tyus Jones #21 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts in the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on March 02, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 02: Tyus Jones #21 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts in the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on March 02, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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4. Tyus Jones

Tyus Jones may seem like an odd choice for this list, given that he is only on his second team in what is the fifth year of his career. Unfortunately for him though, landing with the Memphis Grizzlies from the Timberwolves may just be a case of once again being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

When in Minnesota there is no question Jones had some moments. He was never anything more than a backup, but two seasons ago while there he appeared in all 82 regular season games, starting 11 of them. This is also going to be his role with the Grizzlies, as he is never going to dislodge fan favorite and one of the most exciting young guys in the league, Ja Morant.

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The fear for Jones is that the hype of Morant has already buried him, while De’Anthony Melton seems to be a capable backup to Morant, and is only 21 himself. Jones isn’t much older at 23, but it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that making a name for himself with the Grizzlies doesn’t look like the most likely ending to this scenario right now.

We shouldn’t forget about him though, because wherever he inevitable goes next, if the chips fall the right way he could be among the better backups in the league. This may be a premature statement, but Jones could end up having a similar career to that of D.J. Augustin. A point guard who didn’t excel at every stop, but is remembered fondly in some cities.

Ironically Jones would likely be able to build on career averages of just 5.6 points and 3.6 assists if he were to take Augustin’s role backing up Markelle Fultz for the Orlando Magic. The 3-point shooting of Jones (averaging 37.9 percent from deep in 2019-20) is also worth keeping an eye on. Shooters off the bench who can provide for others are always in demand in the league.

Whatever the future holds for Jones, don’t let the modest numbers and lack of playing time to establish himself (averaging only 18 minutes per contest on his career so far) deter you. There is a capable point guard waiting to be used properly, and as long as this happens for him sooner rather than later, he will find playing time in the league.