The Phoenix Suns signed Tyus Jones for a year at $3 million, even though he was the top point guard available in free agency.
Why Jones Chose the Suns
Jones had bigger offers from teams like the Wizards, Spurs, Nets, and Pistons. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that these offers were between $8 million and $12 million per year. Despite this, Jones decided to join forces with Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker in Phoenix.
“In any other year, Jones would’ve been paid handsomely as the top point guard on the free agent market with a reputation as a mature leader,” Shelburne reported.
Tyus Jones turned down larger offers from teams like the Pistons and the Wizards to join Phoenix instead, per @ramonashelburne
โIn any other year, Jones would've been paid handsomely as the top point guard on the free agent market with a reputation as a mature leader. Andโฆ
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral)
The Appeal of Playing in Phoenix
Most NBA players wouldn’t leave over $5 million on the table. However, playing with such talented teammates was too tempting for Jones. The Suns needed someone like him to handle the ball and make plays. Plus, he would get plenty of time on the court as they aim for a championship run.
We think it’s awesome when players choose teamwork over money!
If things go well this season and the Suns perform strongly in playoffs, his value could increase significantly next summer.
“I try to make their job easy,” Jones told Shelburne. “Try to set the table for them, put them in great positions to just score.”
Adding another veteran to the locker room.
๐ฃ๏ธ KD on Tyus Jones joining the Suns!
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns)
Impact on Team Dynamics
Last season wasn’t perfect; turnovers were an issue for Phoenix. They ranked 25th in turnover percentage with many possessions ending badly. With Jones leading plays now, they should improve handling those situations better.
Booker and Beal can focus more on scoring rather than being makeshift point guards all game longโthis will help unleash their full potential!
Jones joined because he wants success; he wants victory! But whether taking less money was smart remains uncertain until after this season concludes…
