When the Los Angeles Lakers signed Damian Jones on a ten-day contract, they did not know exactly which version of him he would receive.
The 25-year-old center ate for himself a role in the 2018-19 Golden State Warriors series as an effective big point that his 6’11 “body and his 7’4 wing team could use to paint to protect in limited minutes. . After handing over Golden State Jones to Atlantas, he also stayed there effectively and ushered in the Phoenix Suns to sign him on a minimum contract this season.
Unfortunately, Jones’ efficiency and production declined in his fourteen games with Phoenix, and with Frank Kaminsky’s revival, cutting ties with Jones became an easy decision.
Jones then signed with the Lakers, a team that was short on depth of field without Anthony Davis, just before their game with the Portland Trail Blazers. Jones did not participate in that game, but he debuted against the Warriors, the team moving away from him, and turned a few heads with an 8-point, 3-rebound, 2-block game shot at 3-3 .
Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma liked what he saw in the former 30th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft and expressed his confidence in Jones’ ability to stay at LA if he can produce as against Golden State.
“Man, I think he has a chance to be here if he can just do what he did out there,” Kuzma said. ‘Be a threat to the lobe, got a big block. I do not know how many minutes he played – maybe it was seven or eight – but had three setbacks in that time, and that’s a good rebound rate. If he can do those things to a small degree, he’s got a chance to be here. ‘
Jones had the opportunity to be a big role alongside Dennis Schroder on a few pick-and-roll roles, and he put up strong screens to create space for him to score on the basket. Jones also blocked several shots on the edge, of which Marc Gasol and Montrezl Harrell did not give much.
The Lakers missed a lot of what JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard brought last season, and without Davis is the search for someone who can provide a good domestic presence.
If Jones can make a major contribution in a similar way as a situation, he can deliver valuable value from the bench, which is more important than ever as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to cause delays and players for health reasons and safety no longer plays. protocol.
Jones points out the seriousness of the back injury
After Los Angeles’ 117-91 victory over Golden State, Jones had a low back strain that indicated him in the injury report as daily. Jones happily says it’s not too serious.
“It’s just a little bit of stiffness right now,” Jones said. “I feel it will be good in a few days. This is nothing too important. ”
The big man does not have too many pillows in how many games are available to make an impact before his contract expires, but Jones has received support from the team, while acknowledging the work he has to do in a difficult personal situation liver.
“Everyone talked and told different ways I could influence the team,” Jones added. ‘The situation is obviously under pressure, but you have to comply until the moment and do your best. Know what you can do and act. ”
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? This is the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive event coverage, participate in live shows, and more!