Cleveland Cavaliers: 8 quality free agents who will accelerate rebuild

2. Derrick Jones Jr.

Derrick Jones Jr. has recently been cleared of coronavirus and is preparing to make his way to the Orlando bubble. This is gigantic news for the Miami Heat who will need DJJ if they want any chance of competing in the playoffs.

Jones has taken the league by storm with his high-flying athletics. He finished the season with the 27th most total dunks, tied with LeBron James. His highlight reel tendencies helped him emerge victorious at the 2020 Dunk Contest.

Thankfully, Jones is much more than just a dunker. He has taken noticeable steps forward in his development this season, utilizing his size and leaping ability to become a better all-around player. His role is limited on a stacked roster but is averaging 17.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per 100 possesions.

At 22 years of age, there is a long list of things Jones needs to improve on. He is a poor 3-point shooter, connecting on below 30 percent of his attempts. This is something that will hold him back from truly making an impact in today’s NBA.

Where he does make an impact is the defensive end of the floor. Jones contested close to 400 shots this season and ranks in Miami’s top three for steals, blocks and deflections. He is also an adequate playmaker, notching the third-highest assist/turnover ratio on the team.

Jones is a few tools away from being the complete package. Becoming a better rebounder and more effective defender is first on the list. His hustle has helped him make a positive impact but he can be even better if he develops more talent. Adding a better handle and a more reliable jump shot could make him a jack of all trades.

DJJ was one of the lowest-paid forwards in the league, making a little over $1 million dollars this season. Signing with the Cavaliers not only gives him a significant pay raise but gives him more freedom than he would have with the Heat.