Clippers Derrick Jones Injures Hamstring, Set to Miss Multiple Weeks

The Clippers, while not the most injury prone team in the NBA, have had some issues staying healthy this year. Kawhi Leonard has yet to play a game, and their other two stars in James Harden and Norman Powell have missed some time as well.

(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Now, things are about to get even worse. The team announced that reliable forward Derrick Jones, who has been a big part of their early success, is going to sit out for at least a few weeks after suffering a right hamstring strain.

The 6’9 forward hurt his leg on Sunday against the Rockets. While he started the game without any issues, playing 12 minutes in the loss, he pulled up when the back of his leg felt sore. So sore, that it caused him to sit out the rest of the contest.

The injury is concerning for a few reasons, the first of which is that hamstring issues are notoriously hard to manage. They re-aggravate easily, and can turn into more serious ailments if not properly dealt with.

That means, even if Jones recovers in a timely manner, he’s likely to miss more than a couple of weeks. He’s set for re-evaluation in two, but that’s probably just a formality before the team can determine a more accurate timeline.

A Tough Loss

Losing Jones is a big blow to Los Angeles, who have been struggling to get back on their feet as of late. The forward did a lot down low, served as a strong enforcer on offense, and defended well both by the basket and out on the wing.

He’s averaging 10 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game on .500/.417/.871 shooting so far this season. He’s also started in all 25 games he’s played, which shows just how much faith the team has in him after his run to the Finals with Dallas last season.

Losing that consistency is going to be tough for a team already missing some key players, and it could lead to more rotation changes down the stretch. When Jones exited the game against Houston, Jordan Miller and Nicolas Batum both saw more play.

It stands to reason that both players will continue to see improved minutes as a way to make up for Jones’ absence. While they don’t quite have the same floor presence, and it could take some time for both of them to adapt to a new rotation, they will be sorely needed over the next few weeks while the Clippers try to keep up their current pace.

Some Good News

Jones isn’t the only injury news for Los Angeles. They recently received some positive updates as well. The team announced a few players who they’ve been trying to get back onto the court are getting closer to returning.

The biggest note is James Harden, who’s been out with a groin injury, practiced in full and should be back soon. Amir Coffey (shoulder contusion) and Mo Bamba (left knee) also practiced, suggesting they will also be able to suit up soon. Kris Dunn is recovering from his recent illness as well.

Even Kawhi Leonard, who has yet to play a full game during this season, is currently going through non-contact drills and putting more work on his knee. He’s not ready for anything major just yet, but it seems his return is something fans can look forward to after all.

“He did offensive script, defensive work, just no contact,” explained head coach Tyronn Lue when talking of the sidelined star. “He looked good. He’s not playing this week but he’s getting better…Just keep building up until he’s able to do contact. We’re not sure when that’s going to come.”

Brighter Days Ahead

The Clippers at full strength could well be one of the best teams in the NBA. Right now, they’ve been just above average, and without Jones that’s likely going to be the story for the next ten or so games. However, they could soon change that narrative.

Getting the likes of Harden back is a large leap forward, and if Leonard is truly on the road to recovery their front court could be one of the strongest in the league. The pair have already shown what they can do together. A deep playoff run is not out of the question.

That goes double if the pair get a strong, healthy supporting cast. Los Angeles has spent a lot of time constructing their roster. They have plenty of players who are able to contribute and run their defense-oriented style of play.

In their current state, the team feels like a .500 style squad. With all-hands-on-deck, they have the ability to do something interesting this year. The first step is getting Jones healthy. They just need to tread water until then.