Derrick Jones Jr. already knows how to play alongside Luka Dončić, but getting him from the Clippers would take more than a familiar connection.
Derrick Jones Jr. spent one season alongside Luka Dončić, and it ended with the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Finals. With the Los Angeles Lakers looking for dependable minutes on the wing, that history makes Jones an intriguing name to watch.
Jones Jr. could become a trade target the Lakers pursue.
Jones can defend opposing wings, finish above the rim and contribute without needing plays called for him. He also knows what it takes to stay involved and work alongside Dončić.
Feb 4, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los AngelesLakerscenter Jaxson Hayes (11) shoots against Los Angeles Clippers forwardDerrickJonesJr. (55) during the first half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesWhy Jones fits with Dončić
Dallas gave Jones a straightforward job: defend difficult matchups, run the floor and be ready when Dončić created an opening. His athleticism made him a sure fire target near the rim for Dončić, while his willingness to take open 3-pointers kept defenses from ignoring him entirely.
That experience would matter on a Lakers team with Dončić and Austin Reaves handling much of the offense. L.A. has added several players this offseason, but building a workable rotation is different from collecting talent. A forward who can take a tough defensive assignment while leaving the shot creation to the guards could give coach JJ Redick another lineup option.
Jones averaged 10.1 points and 3.5 rebounds for the Clippers in 2025-26. Those numbers alone do not explain his appeal. His value to the Lakers would come from defending on the perimeter and fitting into possessions that start with Dončić or Reaves. He would not need to become a featured scorer to help them.
May 26, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guardLukaDoncic (77) ceelbrates with Dallas Mavericks forwardDerrickJonesJr. (55) in fron tof Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley (10) after the game during game three of the western conference finals for the 2024 NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY SportsA fit does not guarantee a deal
Jones remains under contract with the Clippers for 2026-27. Any trade would require both teams to agree on a return and make the salaries work. The clubs also share a city, which could complicate negotiations, though geography alone does not rule out a deal. There has been no confirmed report of active trade talks between them.
The Clippers have added competition on the wing, including Max Strus, and Jones could face a different role this season. That gives L.A. a reason to monitor his situation, but it does not mean the Clippers are ready to move him or that the Lakers should pay whatever they ask.
There is also a timing question. Jones’ contract expires after the season, so the Lakers could assess their new roster before deciding whether to pursue him in a trade or wait for free agency. Waiting would avoid surrendering an asset, but it would also leave them competing with other teams if Jones reaches the market.
The basketball case is easy to see: Jones has played meaningful postseason minutes with Dončić and brings skills the Lakers could use. Whether he becomes a realistic target depends on his role with the Clippers, the asking price and what L.A. learns about its own wings once games begin.
