2025 NBA Draft: Experts grade Heat drafting Kasparas Jakucionis No. 20 overall
Briefly

The Miami Heat selected guard Kasparas Jakucionis from Illinois as the No. 20 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, surprising many analysts. Despite some concerns about his three-point shooting and turnover rate, he is recognized as a high-level playmaker, particularly valuable in Miami's offensive structure. Analysts suggest that Jakucionis could thrive with the Heat, enhancing their backcourt alongside Tyler Herro, while the team continues its commitment to building talent without resorting to tanking. His selection demonstrates the Heat's strategic foresight and dedication to developing young players.
Good grief, I did not see this one coming. Hard to say why Jakucionis plummeted this far, but the Heat are getting the second-most creative playmaker in the draft.
I understand the concerns. His skill andhis basketball acumen are his best assets. He has good size, skill and processing instincts. However, he didn't shoot the 3 particularly well.
The Heat might have had visions of using this pick to acquire an established star, but they have to be happy with how things turned out.
They needed a skilled playmaker on the perimeter, and Kasparas Jakučionis is one of the best ball-movers in this class.
Read at Hot Hot Hoops - Miami HEAT NBA Blog
[
|
]