Tre Jones to Play Modern Game?

Tre Jones didn't light up the boards in Victor Wembanyama's rookie season, but he was a servicable starter. The San Antonio Spurs didn't like the lack of depth in the backcourt and made some substantial offseason moves. They signed a 19-year veteran, Chris Paul, and drafted Stephon Castle to answer the issues from the 2023-24 season. With Tre Jones relegated as the Spurs reserve point guard, how will he respond with a more defined role?

At 24, Jones heads into a pivotal 2024-25 campaign. Up for restricted free agency next season, and if the Spurs wish, he could sign a contract extension this season. Taking up only 6.4 percent of the Spurs' cap, Jones has $9.2 million left on his rookie contract.

Although San Antonio historically avoids mid-season trades, Jones could count as a contract filler if Wembanyama improves the franchise enough for the front office to contemplate fast-forwarding the rebuilding process.

However, if the Spurs continue its tradition of not changing the roster until the summer, Jones must look to increase his 3-point numbers in both volume and efficiency. Gregg Popovich shares his disdain for the 3-point shot whenever anyone will listen.

Nonetheless, in the current era, a point guard who can't shoot an adequate number from deep regresses offenses. Jones brings plenty of upside as a facilitator and a defender, but his lack of range has been his Achilles' heel.

Last season, Jones 33 percent from behind the 3-point line, which is three percent lower than the NBA's average. Although Jones didn't excel in shooting the ball, the 2020 second-round draft pick recorded a career-high 3-point attempt rate of .318, albeit eight percent lower than the league average.

Related: San Antonio Spurs Season Preview: Can Chris Paul Carry Point Guard Load?

Jones' keeping the defense honest will allow more room for the more dynamic Spurs players. Look for Jones to continue shooting 3-point shots, but until he makes enough and turns into an offensive threat, expect his minutes to dip slightly.