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Until they did. Kris Dunn and Derrick Jones Jr. tightened up the NBA’s third best defense. Nicolas Batum played 78 games and shot 43.3% from three. In larger roles, Zubac and Norman Powell thrived. Leonard and Harden are the biggest piece of the puzzle but they are part of one that fits. “I think when you have a team that appreciates their role and understands what their role is every single night and they're fine with it, it makes it a lot easier to coach,” said Lue. “What our guys have been able to do this year, understanding their roles … it kind of puts guys in their places and guys are fine with their roles and understand what we need from them every single night.”
Law Murray: Derrick Jones Jr., 2024-25 road splits: 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 40 steals, 16 blocks, 52.9% FG, 35.9% 3s in 39 games DJ home splits: 9.8 pts, 3.4 reb, 0.8 ast, 39 stl, 17 blk, 52.3% FG, 35.3% 3 in 38 games He says that he's the same player no matter the venue. pic.x.com/e6f2Qk0jqG
But Harden’s stats aren’t why he is having a special season. He has made an impact on this Clippers team that must be acknowledged. “He’s a selfless person,” said Derrick Jones Jr., the Clippers’ top free-agent addition in the offseason. “I mean, he’s all about the team. He wants to see the next guy be great. … He’s always there, he’s always available whenever you need him. Got something to talk about, go chop it up with him. That’s not normal for a lot of guys.”
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Nick DePaula: BREAKING: ANTA & @KyrieIrving have signed Caris LeVert, Derrick Jones Jr. & Daniel Gafford to shoe deals. “These guys are my brothers, players I’ve shared the journey with,” said Irving. “Together, we aim to inspire the future of basketball and create a legacy that resonates
Law Murray: Tyronn Lue explained pregame how Kawhi Leonard has an adjustment to make under defensive coordinator Jeff Van Gundy and his scheme (this team actually forces turnovers, unlike most of the 213 era) But TLue excited about Leonard, Dunn, Jones Jr. defensively as well (h/t @ChrysNBA) pic.x.com/MxOHlkX5f0
Derrick Jones Jr. likens his durability to Wolverine or Deadpool. Sure enough, Jones made a surprise return to practice ahead of the road trip to Dallas, was listed as questionable ahead of the first game, and wound up getting to return to the lineup on a minutes restriction. It was almost like he needed to play so he could take in the tribute video at American Airlines Center that the Mavericks played for his services. “I wasn’t expecting that,” Jones said sheepishly after the Clippers beat Dallas Thursday night 118-95, 11 days after Jones initially strained his hamstring. “But it’s love, for sure. I always got love for this city. They gave me an opportunity to play when a lot of teams wouldn’t. And I just was able to take full advantage of the opportunity. Got myself here.”
Jones’ departure was a blow to the Mavericks, who beat the Clippers in the quarterfinals before going on a run that ended with an NBA Finals loss to the Boston Celtics. “Derrick was a big part of our success last year,” Dallas head coach Jason Kidd said before Thursday’s game. “He was the last to sign with us … he made us a little bit more athletic. He could guard one through five. He shot the 3 well for us. And he’s a pro. He comes to work every day to do his job. We’re happy for his new contract. Unfortunately, he’s on the other side. But the Clippers got a pro.”
Law Murray: Derrick Jones Jr. will start tonight in Dallas
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Law Murray: Derrick Jones Jr told me that he wanted to come back for Jazz game Monday night. Team wanted him to take more time. But he’s ready for his reunion game. Will be in a minutes restriction.
Law Murray: Asked Tyronn Lue if Kawhi Leonard is 100 percent. T Lue: "Yeah, he feels good. And so we just got to make sure he continues to feel good." Added that Derrick Jones Jr. is TBD to play in Dallas/Memphis, along with Kobe Brown update pic.x.com/T9h3Qnx5yh
Law Murray: Kawhi Leonard will not play on his bobblehead night vs Jazz, and neither will Derrick Jones Jr, Terance Mann, Kobe Brown, PJ Tucker, Cam Christie, or Trentyn Flowers Same roster as Friday night in Denver
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