Mike Brown Praises Newest King Mason Jones for High Energy
Following a quiet trade deadline, the Sacramento Kings filled their open roster spot by converting two-way guard Keon Ellis to a standard, three-year contract, which the 24-year-old rightfully deserved after his valiant efforts at the beginning of the season. By upgrading Ellis' deal, the Kings had an open two-way spot, which they granted to G League standout Mason Jones.
Jones, 25, was playing at a high level for Sacramento's G League affiliate Stockton Kings. Despite not yet touching the court for Sacramento, Jones has made a positive impact from the bench. Kings HC Mike Brown praised Jones' efforts after Wednesday's win over the Denver Nuggets (via @DeuceMason | X):
"Mason Jones, we just signed him to a two-way deal, he didn't play at all tonight, but his impact in the game was huge. The energy he brought from being on the bench was phenomenal. Every time out, before I can even take three steps on the floor, he's sprinting past me high-fiving guys, talking to guys, during the game he's talking to guys. We have a fairly quiet group, so for him to bring that type of energy was phenomenal. ...I felt it, our players felt it, and our coaches felt it. His energy was great for us in a game that we could have easily folded, but our guys found a way."
The Kings scraped out a win against Denver on Wednesday, as Brown believes Jones' energy and presence on the bench was a significant factor. Jones had to earn a spot on Sacramento's roster after grinding in the G League for the past three seasons, and the young guard is already proving his value, even off the court.
Sacramento heads into the All-Star break after playing 15 of their last 19 games on the road, and by the end of that grueling stretch, the team was likely drained. Jones' energy brought a spark to the team that nobody seemed to know was necessary. With just 28 games left in the regular season, that energy will be needed as the Kings make a late-season push for playoff position.
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