Jones is a combo-guard who can help the Cavs.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have a pair of second-round NBA Draft picks this summer. We’re profiling several prospects to keep an eye on as we approach the big day.
Today, we’re focusing on Kam Jones.
Who is Kam Jones?
Jones is a steady guard who averaged 19.2 points and 5.9 assists in his senior year with Marquette. Jones is 6’4” and created for himself at a high-level in college. The question is, how much of that can translate to the NBA?
Where is Jones expected to go in the draft?
Because Jones is a limited three-point shooter and an older prospect — he’s expected to go late in the second round or undrafted altogether.
What do the experts say about Jones?
Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports:
“Jones offers crafty combo guard skills with advanced shot creation and a blossoming playmaking feel. But his so-so athleticism and streaky shooting paint him as just a cog rather than the rare star upperclassmen set to enter the league.”
“His age and athletic limitations push him into the second round to undrafted range, but his skill level, experience, and basketball IQ make him one of the more ready-made backcourt prospects in this class”
Adam Finkelstein of 247 Sports:
“While he led Oklahoma State in usage this year, what stands out is the overlap of volume, versatility, and efficiency in his game. Small can operate effectively in a variety of different situations.”
How could Jones help the Cavs?
This will be a theme throughout our profiles. The Cavs need a backup point guard. Some might be holding onto hope that Craig Porter Jr. can fill this role. But the Cavs front office can’t have that some patience. If they can find another lottery ticket in this draft, they should take it.
Jones has real skills. He showcased a wide variety of offensive tools, from creating for himself to dishing to his teammates. He could be a capable ball-handler who fills one of Cleveland’s biggest needs.
The biggest thing holding Jones back is his three-point shooting. He shot just 31% from deep as a senior and finished his collegiate career as a 36% three-point shooter. Jones will need to develop into a quality shooter to overcome his lack of athleticism at the NBA level.