Kofi Inkoom
The Los Angeles Clippers are interested in free agent guard Tyus Jones and are exploring sign-and-trade scenarios, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Jones posted impressive stats last season, averaging 12.0 points and 7.3 assists per game, with a shooting accuracy of 48.9% from the field and 41.4% from three-point range.
While Scotto acknowledges that this is speculative, the Clippers might consider using a mix of the expiring contracts of P.J. Tucker and Russell Westbrook, along with draft picks and Bones Hyland, in a potential deal for the Wizards guard.
Even though Tucker and Westbrook are likely to be shopped this off-season, per reports, Hyland’s situation was quite different.
Hyland’s role diminished following Harden’s arrival, which altered the team’s rotation and pushed him down the lineup. This reduction in playing time led to Hyland’s frustration and a brief period away from the team in February.
“With the Clippers re-signing James Harden, adding Kevin Porter Jr. in free agency, and reportedly in line to acquire Kris Dunn via a sign-and-trade, [Bones Hyland] could potentially become expendable.” Scotto wrote.
The Clippers had considered trading Hyland back in February, setting an asking price of two second-round picks, but no deal was reached.
Last season, Hyland averaged 6.9 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game over 54 games, starting in 7, with a field goal percentage of 38.6%.
In the playoffs, he played in 3 games against the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 3.7 points, 0.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 42.9% from the field.