Derrick Jones Jr. has been a solid contributor for the Los Angeles Clippers since his return from an MCL injury that sidelined him for more than a month.
It’s no coincidence that the Clippers have played well in recent weeks, even after the departure of James Harden at the trade deadline. Jones has been a big part of their surge, providing two-way activity.
In Sunday’s start against the Orlando Magic at the Intuit Dome, Jones showed again why he is an essential part of the roster. However, Paolo Banchero briefly escaped Jones after receiving a screen from Wendell Carter Jr. Jones. got well fast To block Banchero’s jumpshot.
The Clippers recovered the ball, leading to a breakaway dunk for Kobe Sanders.
Derrick Jones Jr. with a block on Paolo Banchero, leading to a slam by Kobe Sanders 🔥pic.twitter.com/nlvA9nHX8t
– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 23 February 2026
In one play, Jones demonstrated his agility, jumping ability and high intelligence. Many people would have given up after losing the pick, but the high-flying forward refused to do so.
It’s that kind of effort that has kept the 29-year-old Jones in the NBA. In his first season, he was known only as a dunker. He hardly had time to play. Still, he worked on his game, developing an outside shot to become a serviceable 3-and-D guy.
Over the years, he has seen his role grow, and has become a key part for the Dallas Mavericks during the 2024 NBA Finals.
He has been a perfect complement to Kawhi Leonard, as he doesn’t need the ball to make an impact.
In his two games since the All-Star break, excluding their meeting versus the Magic, Jones has averaged 17.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.0 blocks.
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