How Nico Harrison’s $27 Million Signing Has Saved the Mavericks Amid Kyrie Irving’s Injury

When the Dallas Mavericks signed Derrick Jones Jr. to a one-year, $2.7 million deal in the offseason, it barely made a ripple in the NBA landscape. The move seemed like an afterthought—a depth piece rather than a game-changer. However, fast forward to the business end of the 2024 season, and Jones Jr. has emerged as a vital piece of Dallas’ playoff push, especially in the wake of Kyrie Irving’s injury.

With Irving sidelined due to persistent injuries, the Mavericks needed someone to step up, and Jones Jr. has answered the call emphatically. His defensive versatility, energy, and timely scoring have proven invaluable, making him one of the best bargain signings of the season. Nico Harrison, Dallas’ general manager, deserves immense credit for identifying Jones Jr. as a crucial role player, and that decision may have helped save the Mavericks’ season.

A Surprising Impact Player

Derrick Jones Jr. has always been known for his athleticism, but his previous stops in Miami, Portland, and Chicago never saw him become a true difference-maker. He was primarily viewed as a high-flying dunker with defensive upside but lacked a defined role.

That narrative has changed in Dallas. Under Jason Kidd’s system, Jones Jr. has flourished as a two-way wing capable of guarding multiple positions while also knocking down timely shots. His contributions have been particularly significant since Kyrie Irving’s injury, where he has stepped into a more prominent role alongside Luka Dončić.

Stepping Up in Kyrie’s Absence

When Kyrie Irving suffered a foot injury that sidelined him for several games, the Mavericks faced a serious challenge. Irving had been a stabilizing force next to Dončić, providing scoring and playmaking that relieved pressure from the superstar guard. Without Irving, Dallas needed someone to help fill the void—not necessarily by replicating his offensive output, but by making an impact in other areas.

Jones Jr. has done just that. His ability to guard elite perimeter players has allowed the Mavericks to maintain defensive intensity, something they struggled with last season. Additionally, his improved three-point shooting has made him a viable offensive threat, forcing defenses to respect him on the perimeter rather than sag off and crowd Dončić.

In key matchups, Jones Jr. has been instrumental:

• Against the Phoenix Suns, he played a crucial role in limiting Devin Booker’s effectiveness while chipping in with timely baskets.
• Against the Denver Nuggets, he showcased his versatility by switching onto Jamal Murray and even contesting Nikola Jokić in certain situations.
• Against the Golden State Warriors, he provided much-needed energy and hustle, outworking defenders on the boards and in transition.

A Defensive Anchor

One of the biggest reasons for Jones Jr.’s increased importance has been his defensive prowess. At 6’6” with a 7-foot wingspan, he has the physical tools to guard multiple positions. His lateral quickness allows him to stay in front of shifty guards, while his length and leaping ability make him a disruptive force against taller wings and even some big men.

Before Jones Jr. stepped into a larger role, the Mavericks often struggled to contain opposing scorers, especially in the absence of Irving. His presence has helped shore up the perimeter defense, taking pressure off Dončić, who has historically had to expend significant energy on both ends of the floor.

His defensive impact is evident in advanced stats as well. Since taking on more minutes in Irving’s absence, Jones Jr.’s defensive rating has ranked among the best on the team. His ability to contest shots, force turnovers, and disrupt passing lanes has been invaluable.

Offensive Growth

While defense has always been Jones Jr.’s calling card, his offensive development has been equally impressive. Historically, he struggled as a consistent outside shooter, but in Dallas, he has shown a newfound confidence from beyond the arc.

This season, he is shooting at a career-best percentage from three-point range, making him a legitimate spacing threat. His ability to knock down corner threes has made defenses pay for collapsing on Dončić, giving Dallas another weapon in their offensive arsenal.

Beyond just shooting, Jones Jr. has excelled as a cutter. With Dončić commanding double teams, Jones Jr. has repeatedly found open lanes to the basket, using his elite athleticism to finish strong at the rim. His chemistry with Dončić has grown throughout the season, with the two connecting on several highlight-reel plays.

A Steal of a Signing

At just $2.7 million for the season, Jones Jr. might be the best value signing in the NBA. His production and impact far outweigh his contract, making him an absolute steal for the Mavericks.

When Nico Harrison signed him, it was seen as a low-risk move—adding a defensive-minded wing for depth. However, it has turned into one of the smartest acquisitions of the year, providing Dallas with a key piece in their playoff hunt.

Compared to other contracts around the league, it’s staggering to see the impact Jones Jr. has had relative to his salary. Many role players earning significantly more have not had nearly the same level of influence on their team’s success.

What It Means for the Mavericks’ Playoff Push

With Irving expected to return soon, the Mavericks will be even stronger heading into the postseason. However, Jones Jr.’s emergence means they now have another weapon at their disposal—someone who can play crucial minutes against elite competition.

His ability to guard top scorers will be vital in a potential playoff series against teams like the Clippers (Kawhi Leonard, Paul George), Nuggets (Jokić, Murray), or Suns (Booker, Kevin Durant). Having a versatile defender who can take on different assignments will give Jason Kidd more flexibility with his rotations.

Additionally, Jones Jr.’s newfound confidence on offense ensures that Dallas has another scoring option when needed. If he continues his strong play, he could be an X-factor in the postseason, helping the Mavericks make a deep run.

Conclusion

Nico Harrison’s decision to sign Derrick Jones Jr. for just $2.7 million has turned out to be one of the best moves of the season. What initially seemed like a minor addition has blossomed into a crucial piece for the Mavericks, especially in the wake of Kyrie Irving’s injury.

Jones Jr.’s defensive prowess, improved shooting, and overall energy have helped keep Dallas afloat in a highly competitive Western Conference. As the playoffs approach, his role will remain pivotal, and if he continues at this level, he may end up being the unsung hero of the Mavericks’ season.

At a bargain-bin price, Dallas has found a diamond in the rough—one that could help propel them toward championship contention.