**Former Mavericks Fan Favorite Reveals Why He Left for Rival in Free Agency**
After the Dallas Mavericks lost to the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals, key player Derrick Jones Jr. needed a new contract. Jones Jr., who played a crucial role in the Mavs’ playoff run by starting all 22 games and averaging 9.1 points and one block per game, chose to leave in free agency. He signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the LA Clippers.
Less than two weeks after joining the Clippers, Jones Jr. explained his decision. He found the Clippers’ plan for him more appealing, particularly their vision of him filling the 3-4 role and being aggressive offensively while maintaining his defensive prowess.
This move puzzled Mavs fans, especially since Jones Jr. was instrumental in defeating the Clippers in the first round of the 2024 Playoffs. However, the Clippers’ offer of a consistent starting position in the 3-4 role was likely a major factor in his decision. Although Jones Jr. played in 76 regular season games for Dallas, he didn’t start in 10 of them.
The uncertainty around Paul George’s return to the Clippers may have also influenced Jones Jr.’s decision. With George’s departure, Jones Jr. saw a clear path to a significant role in LA. Meanwhile, the Mavericks bolstered their roster by trading for Quentin Grimes, signing Naji Marshall to a three-year deal, and completing a sign-and-trade for Klay Thompson.
Despite losing Jones Jr., the Mavericks remain optimistic about the upcoming season. They aim to bounce back from their Finals loss, and the new acquisitions are expected to fill the gap left by Jones Jr.’s departure. Marshall, in particular, could replicate some of Jones Jr.’s defensive intensity.
Overall, while Jones Jr.’s departure is a blow, the Mavericks are well-positioned to compete and potentially surpass their previous season’s success.
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