Rockets' target snatched! Tyus Jones confirms signing with Nuggets: to serve as Murray's backup in championship pursuit

On March 3, Beijing time, as reported by noted journalist Shams, free agent guard Tyus Jones has reached an agreement to join the Denver Nuggets, following his release from the Dallas Mavericks. Jones, a seasoned playmaker and ball-handler, will fill a need in the Nuggets' guard rotation. It was previously reported that the Timberwolves and Rockets were both interested in Jones, but he decided to become a teammate of Jokic.

Reporter Siegel followed up, stating that Jones reached a buyout with the Mavericks in order to join a playoff-contending team and contribute in a reserve role. He now has that opportunity — he will serve as the primary backup guard behind Jamal Murray in Denver, a role similar to the one Reggie Jackson played for the Nuggets in 2023.

Earlier, Siegel noted that after clearing waivers, Jones could immediately join any playoff team and become a significant contributor. He is one of the league's top point guards in assist-to-turnover ratio. This season, in limited playing time, Jones recorded 142 assists with only 19 turnovers.

The Rockets have consistently needed to improve their depth at the point guard position, but once again, their target has been taken.