Jones Jr’s Effort Earns Attention from his Blazers Teammates

Derrick Jones Jr. attempted a season-high 14 field goals in the Trail Blazers’ 116-112 loss to the Nets. Along with his increased role on offense, Jones captured the attention of his teammates with his all-out style of play.

After the game, NBC Sports Northwest’s Jamie Hudson highlighted Enes Kanter’s comments about Jones.

“DJ has been sacrificing body. Obviously, you all seeing him competing out there every — not every game, every possession… He’s a warrior. He’s definitely a warrior.”

Kanter was not alone, coach Terry Stotts also recognized the effort that Jones put forth in Tuesday’s contest.

“It was a team effort, but he [Jones] was persistent with Harden all night. He picked him up and made him work.”

Jones finished with 13 points—five shy of his season-high total of 18. Outside of his scoring, the former Heat forward recorded two rebounds, one steal and one block. Jones and the Blazers will attempt to snap their current two-game losing streak on Thursday against the Heat.

You can read Hudson’s full story at NBC Sports Northwest.