The Miami Heat opted to retain their first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis with the 20th overall pick. This marks a significant achievement for the organization, drafting first-round players consecutively for the first time in 20 years. Jakucionis, a promising young player from Lithuania who recently turned 19, showcased impressive stats in college, averaging 15 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. Despite some concerns about his athleticism, he possesses a versatile offensive skill set that aligns with Miami's developmental approach.
In the end, the Miami Heat did not trade its first round pick in this year's NBA Draft. Instead, the Heat used its first-round selection to add to its young core.
Jakucionis averaged 15 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game while shooting 44% from the field and 31.8% from three-point range as a freshman at Illinois last season.
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