In a strategic move that bolsters their backcourt, the Phoenix Suns have secured the services of veteran point guard Tyus Jones on a one-year, $3.3 million deal. At 28 years old, Jones brings not only experience but also a proven track record of steady playmaking and scoring.
New Beginning in Phoenix
Jones, who played the 2023-24 season with the Washington Wizards, joins a star-studded Suns roster featuring the likes of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. Reflecting on this opportunity, Jones expressed his excitement and the sound reasoning behind his decision to join Phoenix. "The chance to play for the Phoenix Suns made the most sense on a lot of levels to me and my family—beginning with the way [governor] Mat Ishbia and the front office recruited me to how coach [Mike Budenholzer] showed me how I can significantly impact a team that has a real opportunity to challenge for an NBA title as their starting point guard," Jones said.
Impressive Credentials
Jones, a product of Duke University, began his NBA career with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2015 and spent his first four seasons there. He later moved to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he played an important role over another four-year stretch before signing with the Wizards. Last season, Jones averaged 12.0 points and 7.3 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to contribute consistently on both ends of the floor.
Veteran's Minimum Deal
The $3.3 million contract Jones agreed to represents a veteran's minimum salary. Despite having multiple offers and proposals that might have been financially more lucrative, the fit with Phoenix stood out to Jones. "My agent [Bradbury] walked me and my family through multiple free agent offers and sign-and-trade proposals at a number of different financial levels, but the Suns' opportunity is where I can best maximize my value for a return to free agency next year as well as give myself a chance to be part of what I think will be a special team and season," Jones remarked about his decision-making process.
Leadership and Experience
This move is expected to add significant depth and leadership to the Suns' bench. Jones' veteran presence, combined with his ability to read the game and execute plays under pressure, makes him a valuable addition, particularly as the Suns aim for a deep postseason run. In the 2022 playoffs with the Memphis Grizzlies, Jones averaged 9.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals over 12 games, showcasing his capabilities in high-stakes situations.
Looking Forward
For the Suns, the acquisition of Tyus Jones is more than just a roster move. It is a calculated effort to add a reliable point guard who can seamlessly integrate into their system and provide both stability and versatility. With the core of Booker, Durant, Beal, and now Jones, the Suns are positioning themselves to be formidable contenders in the Western Conference.
As the new season approaches, Suns fans can look forward to seeing how Jones' playmaking ability and court vision will complement the team's already potent offensive lineup. With Jones at the helm, Phoenix's journey towards an NBA title appears more promising than ever.