2. Tyus Jones, PG, Memphis Grizzlies
Jones has been an expert backup to Ja Morant in Memphis this year, but he could easily cash in after scoring a new career-high with 8.7 points per game. With two first-round picks, Memphis could draft a replacement for Jones that allows them to save a few dollars here and there.
Jones brings supreme passing skills, quality on-ball defense for his size, and some scoring efficiency that is starting to improve. The Grizzlies had a ton of success when Morant was injured this season, and Jones’ steady hand unquestionably played a massive part in that.
Tyus Jones makes sense for the Toronto Raptors.
The biggest obstacles Jones would have in the way of his playing time would be Flynn and Armoni Brooks. Neither of them has Jones’ pedigree and ability to be such a tangibly positive player on both sides. If Jones accepts his Sixth Man role, Toronto will have the steal of the offseason.
Jones might be viewed by some teams as a starter, which could make it tough for Toronto to compete financially. Ujiri will need to hope that Jones accepts a contract that gives Toronto some flexibility, as doing so could help them get VanVleet a viable backup while helping the roster out in other areas of need.