In the 1994 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Jones with the 10th overall pick. He quickly became an integral part of the Lakers' lineup, known for his defensive prowess and ability to score from the perimeter. During his rookie season, Jones averaged 14.0 points per game and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His performance on both ends of the court earned him a reputation as a reliable and skilled player.
Jones' tenure with the Lakers saw him develop into a two-time NBA All-Star by 1998. His ability to steal the ball and his defensive acumen were standout aspects of his game. In 1996, he led the league in total steals, showcasing his knack for disrupting opponents' offenses. His time in Los Angeles also included a memorable playoff run in 1998, where the Lakers reached the Western Conference Finals.
In 1999, Jones was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, where he continued to excel. During his time with the Hornets, he was selected for the NBA All-Star Game in 2000 and was named to the All-NBA Third Team. His scoring average peaked during the 1999-2000 season, where he posted 20.1 points per game. Jones' defensive skills remained sharp, as he consistently ranked among the league leaders in steals.
The next chapter of Jones' career began in 2000 when he was traded to the Miami Heat. His tenure with the Heat was marked by consistent scoring and leadership on the court. Jones played a crucial role in helping the team reach the playoffs multiple times. In Miami, he continued to be a defensive stalwart, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best perimeter player.
In 2005, Jones returned to the Memphis Grizzlies, a team he had briefly played for earlier in his career. His veteran presence and experience were valuable assets to the Grizzlies, who were in the midst of building a competitive roster. Jones' ability to mentor younger players and contribute on the court was evident during his time in Memphis.
Jones' career also included a brief stint with the Dallas Mavericks in 2007, where he provided depth and experience to a team with championship aspirations. Although his playing time was limited, his influence in the locker room and on the practice court was appreciated by teammates and coaches alike.
Eddie Jones retired from professional basketball in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of strong defensive play, consistent scoring, and leadership. Over his 14-year NBA career, he was a three-time NBA All-Star, a three-time All-Defensive Team selection, and a player who consistently ranked among the league leaders in steals. His ability to adapt to different teams and roles throughout his career demonstrated his basketball intelligence and skill.
Jones' impact on the game extended beyond his on-court achievements.
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