Derrick Jones Jr. needs to add strength and weight this offseason
At 6’5 with a seven-foot wingspan, Derrick Jones Jr. only clocks in at 210-lbs. Honestly, he looks like he’s maybe 180 soaking wet.
Although DJJ is a great defender as is, with his length, athleticism, and quickness, adding some more muscle mass would do wonders for him on the defensive end.
With his massive wingspan, Jones Jr. could easily guard every small-ball power forward in the league. With his slight frame though, he’s too easily pushed around by the bigger, stronger fours in the NBA and therefore is more effective guarding positions one through three.
If he can add maybe 15-lbs this offseason, Jones Jr. would acquire a versatility that would make him hard to keep off the court.
Not only would the extra weight help him on defense, it’d also make him more effective on offense. If he were to get to around 220-225, the Blazers could rely on him more as a screen-and-roll threat, putting him in lob situations for easy baskets.
If he could reliably play the four, Portland wouldn’t need to stick him on the perimeter as often, an area where he’s not a threat on offense due to his weak outside shooting and lack of shot creation. With his length, he could even spot as a small-ball five.
Hopefully as soon as DJJ signs his player option, he’ll head to the gym to hit the weights.