Second-round rookie Kam Jones has had a lot more playing time for the Indiana Pacers this month, and for the most part, he's making the most of it.
In his past five games, the Marquette alum has averaged 6.8 points, 3.2 assists, and 2 turnovers while shooting 46.7% from the field in 25.2 minutes. This includes a solid 11-point game against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, which included him hitting the eventual game-winning three-pointer with 16 seconds left in the game to put Indiana up 113-110.
After the game, head coach Rick Carlisle spoke about Jones' game-winning shot and what he brings whenever he steps onto the court. And it seems clear that he's a fan of his game.
"He's undaunted. He's a confident kid," Carlisle said about Jones. "Strong family. He's had great coaching throughout his career. And he just plays. And he always keeps believing in himself, and he made the biggest shot of his life."
Kam Jones has been solid for the Pacers recently
No, he's not the second coming of Tyrese Haliburton, and I'm not going to pretend like his numbers have been jaw-dropping. But with each passing game, it's becoming clear that the Pacers have something in Jones.
The Colorado native has improved as a passer and playmaker since his college days, and he looks confident when he's on the court. Additionally, while his three-ball mostly hasn't fallen at the NBA level, he shot 36.6% from beyond the arc in college and already made it clear on Wednesday that he can knock them down when needed.
Jones is slowly proving that he can be a solid player for the Pacers for years to come. Being on a roster that also has Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, T.J. McConnell, and potentially Darryn Peterson later this year will make it tough for the 23-year-old to carve out a long-term role. Regardless, it's clear that he has talent, and he's putting it on display right now.
Given that the Pacers are 15-40 entering the break and are closer to winning the draft lottery than making it to the playoffs, it wouldn't be much of a surprise if they opt to lighten the load off some of their top guys for the rest of the season to prepare for the next one. And if that happens, it's safe to assume that Jones will continue to have his opportunities and prove his value.