There’s much that stands out when looking back on Derrick Jones Jr.’s inaugural press conference as a member of the Portland Trail Blazers. From the tranquil, tangible calm he exuded to the confidence in his answers — he declared it was going to be a “special year,” then doubled down on Portland being the best fit — it was difficult to not leave that press conference intrigued by both his genuine mystique and his role in returning the Blazers’ defense to respectability.
Eight months later, though, it’s safe to suggest that there’s mutual regret.