Cavs expected to pursue Derrick Jones Jr.

John Hollinger of The Athletic reported that he expects the Cleveland Cavaliers to pursue Derrick Jones Jr. in free agency this fall. Hollinger added that “the Cavs will have plenty of company.”

As I’ve discussed before, Jones could be a sought-after free agent because of his age (23) and his defensive prowess. Jones has said that he wants to stay with the Heat. But if other teams offer him multi-year contracts and Miami — still hoping to keep salary cap room for 2021 — won’t match them, will he bolt in free agency?

If Jones leaves, some expect KZ Okpala to fill in his role in the rotation. Okpala, a 2019 second-round pick, impressed Heat officials with his progress playing for the Sioux Falls Skyforce.