Dahntay Jones signed a 10-day contract with the Los Angeles Clippers out of the D-League and here is a scouting report on his game: 

Situation: It isn’t often you see a 34-year-old veteran playing in the D-League, and it’s even more unlikely to see this type of prospect receive a coveted Call-Up to the NBA. In this scenario, Jones was one of the few candidates in the D-League with extensive NBA history, including a 10-year NBA career, and will add another season to his resume with the recent 10-day deal in Los Angeles. The former first round pick spent the preseason with Utah before playing 19 games with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. As an experienced player, he shouldn’t take too long to get adjusted back to the NBA game.

Size/Athleticism: Jones has a solid frame at 6-foot-6 and possesses a lengthy wingspan with lots of muscle. Jones still has plenty bounce and quickness left despite his age. His physical attributes will clearly translate to the NBA, as they have before.

Ballhandling: Jones doesn’t create a majority of his own offense off the bounce, but he does possess a crossover that’s effective with either hand. He doesn’t handle the ball well enough to play point guard, but showed flashes in the D-League. When playing with Chris Paul and Jamal Crawford, Jones won’t need to handle the ball very often.

Shooting: A career 33.4% three-point shooter in the NBA, Jones has boosted that number to 38.5% in the D-League, although it’s a much smaller sample size. He was 15-of-39 from deep in Fort Wayne and 22-of-45 (48.9%) from 8 to 24 feet. Jones will need to continue to knock down the three well enough to space the floor, but can also pull-up from mid-range effectively.

Penetration: As a lengthy athlete, Jones can get to the rim. He converts 62.6% of his attempts within 5 feet, ranking within the D-League average. Perhaps what’s most effective is his post game, since he can use his size to bully smaller defenders. Jones can take smaller opponents into the post and score when needed.

Passing: Jones is a decent passer when the ball’s in his hands, but primarily plays off penetration. His experience shows in this aspect of his game, as he makes the extra pass and can find the rolling man off the pick-and-roll. He’s averaging a lackluster 1.7 assists per game, but is turning the ball over just 1.3 times in 29.3 minutes. He won’t help or hurt the Clippers very much as a passer.

Defense: This will be the area Jones is expected to make his biggest impact. He uses his strength to frustrate opponents and force them outside of the lane. While Jones is 34, he still moves well laterally and shows his athleticism with an occasional highlight block. Doc Rivers has already praised Jones’ defense and will likely use him for this aspect.

Rebounding: Jones is an average rebounder, chipping in 3.4 boards per game with the Mad Ants. He’s averaging 1.8 rebounds per contest in his NBA career. 

Versatility: Defensively, Jones can guard any spot on the perimeter, including the point guard position, but would be best defending the wing. His defensive versatility will help him see the floor and find a role. On the offensive side, he can play the shooting guard or small forward spot.

Final Analysis: It’s rare to find a D-League product with the experience of Jones. He should help immediately on the wing for the Clippers and could add some leadership during his stint. Jones obviously doesn’t have the upside of younger prospects, but is a safe bet to fill the void the Clippers are asking for. With recent first round pick C.J. Wilcox still developing, look for Jones to provide immediate help as a defensive minded veteran.