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.