BREAKING: Key Dallas Mavericks Free Agent Agrees to Sign With LA Clippers

The Mavs already had their backup plan in place by signing Naji Marshall, but it’ll hurt to see this fan favorite leave Dallas Austin Veazey Dec 20, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) controls the ball as Dallas Mavericks forward Derrick Jones Jr. (55) defends during the second half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports Well, that was fast. After the Dallas Mavericks agreed to terms with New Orleans Pelicans forward Naji Marshall, it was expected that Derrick Jones Jr. may take his time to weigh his options and had a waiting period since signing a new agent. Instead, Derrick Jones Jr. has agreed to a 3-year, $30 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, per Shams Charania of The Athletic. While the Mavs have replaced him on the court with Marshall, his high-flying athleticism and instant chemistry with the locker room will be hard to replace in the minds of fans. Retaining Jones Jr. was called Priority 1A and 1B by general manager Nico Harrison, but a change in agents made negotiations tough. Jones signed with the Mavericks on a minimum contract last offseason as the...