Tyus Jones
There is a very real breakout potential with Tyus Jones this season. Throughout his eight-year NBA career, Jones has never been a starter to begin the season, despite being one of the best backup point guards in the league. He has performed well in his starts in Ja Morant’s absences over the past few seasons, and certainly deserved a chance to be a starting point guard. He now has an excellent opportunity with the Wizards to show what he is capable of as a floor general.
Jones has long been recognized as a low-mistake point guard who has one of the best assist-to-turnover ratios in the league. He is mature, plays with his own pace, and doesn’t have many weaknesses in his game. Given the opportunity to play 30 minutes a game and average better overall numbers, it wouldn’t be shocking if Jones averaged around 16 points and 8 assists this season. This could easily catapult him into the top 100 in next year’s edition.
There are already a few guards one could argue that Tyus Jones is at least on the same level with. Collin Sexton (no. 98) and Russell Westbrook (no. 94) are probably better suited to be a sixth-man on a competitive team, similar to Jones. Mike Conley (no. 93) just turned 36 and it’s hard to imagine him playing at a much higher level than Tyus Jones for a full season. If Jones stays healthy and maintains his performance in his starts from last season, he could make a case for himself to be above these players next year.