The Utah Jazz plan to release two-way player Jason Preston, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. This move is necessary to free up a two-way roster spot following reports that the team intends to sign rookie swingman David Jones to a two-way contract. Preston has been out of action due to a calf strain, as noted by Scotto.
Preston, a 6’4″ point guard, was drafted 33rd overall in 2021 out of Ohio University and started his NBA career with the Clippers. Unfortunately, he missed his rookie season due to a right foot injury and was waived before the 2023/24 season after playing 14 games for the Clippers in the 2022/23 campaign.
He began the 2023/24 season with the Memphis Hustle, the G League affiliate of the Grizzlies, before joining the Jazz on a two-way deal in January. For the remainder of the season, he alternated between the NBA roster and the Salt Lake City Stars, Utah’s G League team.
In his 21 NBA appearances with the Clippers and Jazz, Preston has averaged 2.5 points, 2.0 assists, and 1.9 rebounds per game. In 52 G League games with the Ontario Clippers, Hustle, and Stars, his averages stand at 16.5 points, 8.6 assists, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, with shooting splits of .490/.406/.862. Notably, Preston achieved 10 triple-doubles last year with the Hustle and Stars, Scotto adds.
Tony Jones of The Athletic reports that Preston is expected to stay in Salt Lake City while recovering from his calf injury. The Jazz reportedly value Preston and are open to possibly re-signing him in the future once he has fully recovered.
Jazz To Waive Jason Preston https://t.co/XSABkbb6UC pic.twitter.com/AdHN1xkCTo
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 20, 2024
