Derrick Jones Jr.’s Future With Clippers Is Reportedly Safe

The Los Angeles Clippers have had an eventful offseason, but there are certain players on this roster who have gone under the radar, and they could make a big impact in 2026-2027. 

One of those players is Derrick Jones Jr., who started in 66 games for Los Angeles last season, and he's slated to have a big role again next season. Just recently, a report came out that Jones and the Clippers had been negotiating a new contract, but if it doesn't work out, he could look to be traded. 

ClutchPoints writer Tomer Azarly recently shot those rumors down and said that Jones and the Clippers are on good terms. He also noted that both sides are open to continuing contract extension talks. 

Last season, Jones ended the season averaging 10.1 points per game, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. He averaged 27 minutes per game throughout the season and was a contributing factor to the Clippers' second half surge to end the season. 

While it looks like Derrick Jones Jr. is the likely starter to open the season, that could change as the season progresses. The Clippers signed forward Rui Hachimura this summer, and after coming off an impressive season with the Los Angeles Lakers, he could find himself in that starting role next season. 

When comparing the two, it's clear that Hachimura is the better shooter from three-point range. Jones shot 35.9 percent from downtown while Hachimura shot 44.3 percent. Hachimura does have experience coming off the bench in his career, but he could play his way to that starting spot. 

For Jones to get the extension he's looking for, outplaying Rui Hachimura might be the first step. Los Angeles has a number of forwards that they could be looking to mix into the rotation, and Jones will need to set himself apart this year. 

After losing Kawhi Leonard this offseason, one of the goals for the Clippers in 2026 is to find stability on the wing, and it would be a boost to have both Jones and Hachimura be reliable players for them moving forward. 

With healthy competition for more playing time, both players could have big seasons and be part of a good supporting cast for Brandon Ingram and Darius Garland.

While the Clippers are in a tough spot long-term because of the punishments they received for salary cap circumvention allegations, they are a team that could be looked at as a playoff contender, and production from Derrick Jones Jr. could help them stay at that level.