Jake Fischer:
Minnesota is expected to have interest in Tyus Jones, but Washington has been the one rival team most often connected with the Grizzlies' point guard. Jones is said to be seeking a multi-year deal above the non-taxpayer mid-level exception of $10.1 million for the '22-23 season.
That last sentence gives me major pause on Tyus Jones. However, I'm now imagining a scenario where the Timberwolves sign Jones without moving D'Angelo Russell. We've discussed one or the other, but the reality is that it could actually be both. In short, I think their interest in Jones is probably real, and I also think moving Russell would be a mistake -- one that probably winds up with Minnesota taking back less value than what he's actually worth.
Minnesota was short on ball-handlers last season so adding another one makes sense in some capacity. Jones would also provide insurance in the likely event that Russell and/or Patrick Beverley get injured next season, as well insurance for when one or both of them walked in free agency next summer.
Perhaps Jones or Beverley would come off the bench, essentially replacing each other on the floor in the same role. I could see that being beneficial. Jordan McLaughlin would act as the fourth point guard on the roster capable of stepping in on a moment's notice. Suddenly, that position group would become a very real strength.
