Midseason report card with second half expectations

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Teammates Elfrid Payton
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Teammates Elfrid Payton
3 of 22

Derrick Jones Jr.

PHOENIX, AZ – OCTOBER 18: Derrick Jones Jr. #10 of the Phoenix Suns reacts as he walks down court during the second half of the NBA game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Talking Stick Resort Arena on October 18, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ – OCTOBER 18: Derrick Jones Jr. #10 of the Phoenix Suns reacts as he walks down court during the second half of the NBA game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Talking Stick Resort Arena on October 18, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Airplane Mode was an obvious favorite of Earl Watson’s, quickly becoming a favorite of Suns fans everywhere. But with the firing of Watson and the hiring of Triano, his position on the roster became tenuos, eventually leading to his release.

Playing in only six games for Phoenix this season, he didn’t show any of the offensive flair or defense energy that made him such a favorite in 2016-17. It’s too bad, really, because his game was a lot of fun to watch and because of his young age, many had hopes that he really could develop into a decent role player.

Now with Miami, he may still have that opportunity.

Grade: D