The Los Angeles Clippers have signed 23-year-old forward Kai Jones to a two-way contract. NBA insider Michael Scotto reported the deal, highlighting Jones’ strong preseason performance, where he averaged 2.4 blocks and 8.0 points while shooting 66.7% from the field in 24.2 minutes per game.
Jones, known for his elite athleticism, was originally drafted 19th overall by the New York Knicks in the 2021 NBA Draft and immediately traded to the Charlotte Hornets. His time with the Hornets, however, was marred by inconsistent play and off-court issues. Jones averaged 2.7 points in 9.1 minutes per game across two seasons in Charlotte. In October 2023, after requesting a trade and displaying erratic behavior on social media, the Hornets waived him, leaving him as a free agent.
Earlier in 2024, Jones had a brief stint in the G League with the Delaware Blue Coats, Philadelphia 76ers’ affiliate, where he averaged 11 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in two games. In April, he signed with the Clippers for the remainder of the 2023-24 season, and in July, the Clippers re-signed him to extend his stay.
With the two-way deal, Jones will split his time between the Clippers and their G League affiliate, the Ontario Clippers, allowing him the opportunity to further develop his skills. Known for his shot-blocking ability and explosive athleticism, Jones hopes to carve out a role in Los Angeles’ rotation.
