Report: Cavaliers Were Interested In Derrick Jones Jr.

According to NBA insider Evan Massey of SI, the Cleveland Cavaliers were interested in Derrick Jones Jr.

Unfortunately for the Cavaliers, Jones Jr. quickly agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers after the Dallas Mavericks signed Naji Marshall.

Jones Jr. appeared in 76 games for the Mavericks in 2023-24. He averaged 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.7 steals and 0.7 blocks while shooting 48.3% from the field, 34.3% from beyond the arc and 71.3% from the free-throw line. 

One of the most athletic players in the NBA, Jones Jr. has career averages of 6.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.6 steals and 0.7 blocks with the Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls and Mavericks. 

The Cavaliers are introducing Kenny Atkinson as their new head coach today. Hoops Wire senior writer Sam Amico will be at the press conference, so be sure to follow him for updates. 

“I am thrilled and honored to be named head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers,” Atkinson said. “This is an incredible opportunity to lead an already talented young roster with an equally bright future. I’ve seen firsthand and had to prepare for this group as an opposing coach, and the task was not easy. I’m so excited to now be on this side of the ledger to help continue moving this team forward. I also want to thank Koby Altman and the front office for having the confidence in me and the shared vision we have for sustainable success in Cleveland.”

Atkinson went 118-190 with the Brooklyn Nets in the regular season. He was 1-4 in the playoffs. 

Atkinson has strong relationships with Cavaliers big man Jarrett Allen and small forward Caris LeVert. He coached them in Brooklyn.  

“We conducted a thorough and extensive search in the selecting of the next head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and today, we are excited to welcome Kenny Atkinson to Northeast Ohio,” Cavaliers president of basketball operations Koby Altman said. “Kenny brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of player development, and a relentless work ethic that aligns with the vision we have for this franchise.”