James Jones: From '09 playoff starter to '10 playoff spectator

A year ago, James Jones started at small forward in each of the Miami Heat's seven playoff games against the Atlanta Hawks. This year, he has been a postseason spectator, watching from the end of the bench against the Boston Celtics.

"In this business, things can completely change in a year," the former University of Miami standout said. "I've been in NBA life too long to know that there are too many factors that go into every situation. It's never cut and dried. There are many things you consider when you're opportunity comes or your opportunity doesn't."

Jones said he doesn't allow himself to dwell on how he has become an afterthought just two years after being signed as a prime free-agent addition.

"You can go through a myriad of reasons why," he said. "But, at the end of the day, you're still faced with the fact that it didn't go your way."

Although under contract for $4.65 million next season, Jones can be bought out of his 2010-11 contract for $1.86 million by June 30, in which case he would receive a similar sum in each of the ensuing two seasons on his contract, as well.

Because of the Heat's plan of maximizing its offseason salary-cap space, Jones is resigned to playing elsewhere next season.



(sun-sentinel.com)