The Cleveland Cavaliers have a couple of roster spots to fill and, according to himself, James Jones will be filling one of those spots:
James Jones (remember him) says he'll re-sign with the Cavs http://t.co/JzSxxxYrvO
— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) July 20, 2015
In the piece, Jones says that he has planned to stay with the Cavs since arriving last year:
"“I’ll be back in Cleveland for sure,” Jones told the Northeast Ohio Media Group Sunday in Las Vegas, on the red carpet for the first Players’ Awards show.“I’ve made it well known last year when I told them I was coming to help change the culture and do something special,” Jones said. “It wasn’t a situation where I was looking for a platform to move on. I was looking to be a part of something, to build something. And so I’m still in.”"
Vardon reports in his story that the Cavs are planning to bring back Jones as well, per a league source. His salary would start at $1.5 million, the minimum for a veteran of 12 years. Last year Jones made just less than that. The Cavs could pay him a bit more but, with all the other money they have spent, are unlikely to do so.
Jones was brought in with Mike Miller to help changed the losing culture on the Cavs squad. He was seen as a LeBron James gift, a player LBJ really trusts that the Cavs signed to make him happy. Miller was expected to be the one who produced for the Cavs. By the end of the season it was clear that “Jimmy” Jones was the big get for the Cavs over the broke down Miller.
The 6’8″ Jones, with a huge 7’3″ wing span, has a quick release and is a deadly 3 point shooter. While not a great defender, Jones showed great effort and smarts last year on that end of the court. LeBron obviously trusts him, which is huge for the Cavs offense. Jones gives the Cavs a backup Stretch 4 behind Kevin Love, a perfect low minute contributor, as well as a veteran voice in the locker room.
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During the Regular Season, Jones played in 57 games, averaging just under 12 minutes a game. He shot 36% from behind the arc on his way to averaging 4.4 points per game. He had a bigger impact in the Playoffs even though his numbers fell slightly. He got almost 16 minutes a game, still averaging 4.4 points but only averaged 34% from deep. His presence on the floor opened up the spacing and he hit some huge, clutch shots in a few games.
The Cavs bench will be a little different next year, with Mo Williams and possibly a couple rookies, but veterans Mike Miller and James Jones look like they will have another year. Fans will worry about age and versatility but Jones showed last year he can still produce and be an important part of the Cavs plans.
What do you think about James Jones saying he is returning to Cleveland?