Did the Houston Rockets Make Draft Promise to Tyus Jones?

The Dallas Mavericks need depth at the point guard position, and for that reason have been linked to Duke’s Tyus Jones with the 21st pick in the NBA Draft June 25th.

They’ve hosted him for a pre-draft workout, and according to Darren Wolfson were impressed by the baby-faced floor general coming off of a National Championship in his freshman season.

No surprise w/ his charisma and skill-set, but heard Apple Valley's Tyus Jones was very impressive in his Mavericks workout/interview today.
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) June 1, 2015

Many would argue that a team trying to win a championship in the next two seasons would be better served with a more NBA-ready draftee, but it’s sounding like the decision to draft Jones won’t be one the Mavericks must make on draft night anyways.

The Houston Rockets, owners of the 18th pick in the draft, are also reported to be high on Jones. He worked out for them, too, and though the session was cut short due to a back problem Jones apparently made an impression with the Houston brass.

Such an impression that some believe the Rockets have made a draft promise to him and the back injury is nothing more than a reason for Jones to cease his workouts for other teams. From ESPN’s Chad Ford:

"Jones hurt his back in a workout with the Rockets and hasn’t worked out since. While the injury may be legitimate, rival GMs have whispered that the Rockets may have shut him down. He’s an analytics darling, fits a major need, and has a lot of momentum after winning a National Championship."

We’ll find out more in the coming days as the chatter increases, but in the meantime check out our Draft Profiles on Jones and other potential first round targets for the Mavericks.

Tyus Jones – Duke, FR.

Justin Anderson – Virginia, JR.

Rashad Vaughn – UNLV, FR.

Kevon Looney – UCLA, FR.

Montrezl Harrell – Louisville, JR.

Robert Upshaw – Washington, SO.

Sam Dekker – Wisconsin, JR.

R.J. Hunter – Georgia State, JR.

Jerian Grant – Notre Dame, SR.

Cameron Payne – Murray State, SO.

Next: 5 Things to Know About LaMarcus Aldridge

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