Richard Jefferson to return next season, James Jones may retire

Wednesday brought good news to fans of the Road Trippin’ podcast, as well as fans aging veterans that can still provide surprisingly effective spot minutes. Richard Jefferson announced on the July 5 edition of the Road Trippin’ podcast that he will return for another season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

"I will be starting my 17th season next year; I am not retiring,” Jefferson said

Jefferson still has one guaranteed year on his contract for a total of $2.5 million. His three point shot wasn’t as effective last year, falling from 38.2 percent in his first year with the team to 33.3 percent. Outside of that, Jefferson was still a positive contributor for the team. And it may have been hard for the Cavs to replace.

Additionally, according to a report by Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com, sources are saying that unlike Jefferson, James Jones will not return next season.

Jones has basically been a glorified coach throughout his time with the Cavs, and it’s unclear whether or not he will remain with the team in an official coaching capacity should he choose to retire. His positive contributions to the locker room culture have been well documented, as well as a major reason why LeBron James has emphasized the importance of keeping him around. Should he retire, I would hope they find a way to keep him around in some capacity.

The departure of Jones would keep a roster spot open for the Cavaliers, who currently have 12 of a possible 17 roster spots filled after the signings of Kyle Korver and Jose Calderon.