New York Knicks: 5 realistic free agents to target
5. Derrick Jones Jr.
Derrick Jones Jr. is a walking highlight reel, built for the big stage. It doesn’t get any brighter than the New York City lights.
Still only in his fourth season in the league, Jones is one of the players you never get tired of watching. Even though the competitiveness of the Miami Heat doesn’t leave him with much room to evolve, his presence on the court is duly noted, due to his insane athleticism.
Jones is the reigning Slam Dunk Champion, after taking home the trophy by defeating his state rival, Aaron Gordon in Chicago’s All-Star Weekend just a few weeks prior to the NBA’s hiatus. I guess that’s what you get when you complete a windmill from the free throw line.
Now that his contract in Miami is coming to an end, it is unlikely that the Heat will look to actively pursue him. A young and promising player like Jones will require a contract that would see him earn at least $10 million annually.
As the Miami Heat have become serious contenders, they eye potential additions to shape this team into a dynasty. A name that comes to mind is Giannis Antetokounmpo who will hit free agency in 2021. Letting go of Jones might be the least the Heat have to do in order to pursue the Greek Freak.