Despite losing Lake and Morgan, Jones is more positive about retention – with Wales duo Dan Edwards and Harri Deaves, and number eight Morgan Morse among the re-signings for next season.
Jones says he and general manager Dan Griffiths are “trying to keep our people in the building that we care about and people who love the Ospreys”.
“The players that love the Ospreys are keen to stay around,” said Jones
“They want to make it work, they want to work with myself and Dan Griffiths on retaining them and their passion for the Ospreys has been massive.
“That bit has been great to see. How much they love playing for the club has been a real pleasure but we do know we want to keep building the squad.
“We want to keep our young squad but want to add some quality in there as well that shows a real intent on the Ospreys about our future.”
Jones says he is “having some good dialogue” with out-of-contract Jack Walsh and is hopeful of keeping the American-born full-back or fly-half who is attracting interest from elsewhere.
“We really value Walshy, he knows how much we care about him,” added Jones.
“It’s clear by how he trains, prepares and performs for us that he cares about the Ospreys.
“Both parties are doing their best to try to get that over the line but he’s a professional player.
“I understand and respect he wants to make sure he assess all his options.”
