Thunder: Pass or Pursue on 5 potential offseason targets
By Mark Nilon
Proposed Thunder target No. 5) Tyus Jones
Though it's undeniable that the Thunder must look to strengthen their frontcourt rotation this offseason, as noted during the Anfernee Simons angle a few slides back, considering the potential offloading of Josh Giddey the franchise may find themselves in a position where they could use for extra guard talents next season as well.
This summer, veteran Tyus Jones finds himself heading into unrestricted free agency following a career campaign with the Washington Wizards, and while his latest production may inflate his desired asking price, Almanza believes his services within Daigneault's rotation could be worth every penny.
"The Thunder lacked a traditional backup guard who could set the offense. Jones provides that coming off a career season with the Wizards. The 28-year-old averaged 12 points on 48.9% shooting, 7.3 assists and 2.7 rebounds in 66 starts last season. He shot 41.4% from 3 on 3.9 attempts.
- Clemente Almanza
As a free agent, Jones will likely command a strong market and has a shot of being a starter. The Thunder have the funds to overpay the 6-foot-1 guard on a short-term deal."
On top of his career per-game counting stats, Jones also would go on to lead the league in assist-to-turnover ratio out of those who logged 50 or more games played, thus only strengthening his label as a trusty set-up artist which, if they part ways with Giddey, OKC would be without.
On top of this, Jones has plenty of experience and has had a ton of success manning the back up point guard position behind a rising superstar on a young and promising title-hopeful team during his time with Ja Morant and the Grizzlies.
Interestingly enough, there were a slew of comparisons drawn between Oklahoma City and Memphis this past season, ranging from their on-court play to their camaraderie and postgame shenanigans.
At the right price, adding Jones along with an upgrade within their frontcourt could make for a tremendous offseason.