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Golden State Warriors: 7 Rising Stars they can target in next two seasons

By Tony Pesta

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 04: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz in action against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 04, 2020 in New York City. The Jazz defeated the Knicks 112-104. 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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 04: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz in action against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 04, 2020 in New York City. The Jazz defeated the Knicks 112-104. 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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

3. Derrick Jones Jr.

The 2020 NBA Slam Dunk Contest winner, Derrick Jones Jr. is much more than high flying acrobatics.

The 22-year old is playing in his fourth NBA season and has made a noticeable leap in his development. Jones is putting up career-highs in points, rebounds and assists. He is one of the many talented role players behind the Miami Heat’s successful campaign.

Jones is a 6’6″ forward with a 7-foot wingspan. His length has made him a pest on defense and a threat in the paint. On the season, Jones is finishing over 70 percent of his attempts around the rim.

The Warriors would be hard-pressed to find a more eager rim-runner. Jones is a blossoming prospect who can make a killing in a fast-paced offense. Giving DJJ the freedom to run in the open floor could truly bring out the best in him. He hasn’t shown much promise as a shooter yet but his potential on defense is intriguing. His long arms give him the chance to have a big impact on this end of the floor.

Jones is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Though he only made $1 million dollars this year it’s likely he is set for a bigger payday. He might not fit under the Warriors $6 million MLE but it doesn’t hurt to offer a one-year deal in the hopes that they can clear up more cap space in the future to extend him.

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