Derrick Jones Jr. expected to draw interest from Bulls, Hawks, Pistons in free agency

Derrick Jones Jr. will be hitting the NBA free-agent market, and despite a reduced role with the Miami Heat during their postseason run, he is expected to generate some interest from several teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls.

"[Jones] likely will generate some interest on the open market because of his athleticism, defensive acumen, youth (23) and the belief that he hasn’t reached his ceiling offensively," wrote the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson.

Jones was a solid contributor for Miami during the regular season, averaging 8.5 points, 3.9 rebounds while shooting over 50% from the field. However, he was essentially forced out of the lineup in the postseason, playing less than seven minutes a game and averaging just 1.5 points per game. 

At just 23, Jones is still an exciting prospect who could definitely add some value to a team like the Bulls or the Hawks, who are hoping to escape the lottery life and make a jump into postseason contention with a couple of key additions like Jones.

As for the Heat, they have sights set on "bigger fish" than someone like Jones, as they hope to build off this year's Finals run and remain a serious title contender for the long haul. Ultimately, the team is believed to be looking to go "all-in" on Giannis if and when he becomes a free agent after next season. But even before then, they are believed in trying to add some useful role players, such as Jerami Grant.