Dahntay Jones got into a tiff with Kobe Bryant and was never heard from again.
Or so we thought.
Jones was defending Kobe on a play where Kobe got hurt late in the 2012-13 season, and Kobe accused Jones of playing dirty. Jones finished that season with the Hawks, and then after 10 NBA seasons – with the Grizzlies, Kings, Nuggets, Pacers, Mavericks and Hawks – and a training camp with the Bulls, he fell out of the league.
For many 32-year-old role players, that’s a career.
But Jones isn’t done quite yet. His agency announced:
Congrats @dahntay1 on signing with the @utahjazz. We know you'll have a huge impact!
— Priority Sports (@PrioritySports) September 22, 2014
Jones guarantee isn’t known, but other teams appeared interested in the shooting guard, so I wouldn’t be surprised if his deal is mostly or fully guaranteed.
The Jazz have 13 guaranteed contracts plus five other players with small or no guarantees and Jones. Utah’s backcourt could definitely use some more depth.
Trey Burke is back to handle a large load, and the Jazz should give Alec Burks enough time to show what he can do before they offer him a contract in free agency next summer. But Dante Exum might be further from ready than hoped, and Toure’ Murry is not a sure thing.
Jones provides Utah with a veteran to teach its young players, and just in case the Jazz drastically exceed expectations, his perimeter defense can help with a playoff push.
Really, though, he’s there to mentor – whether that’s just through the preseason or longer.