Despite experiencing their first losing season since 2018-19, the Miami Heat saw significant growth from rookie center Kel'el Ware and guard Pelle Larsson. Both played crucial roles in the playoffs, with Ware starting and Larsson contributing off the bench. Coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the value of the playoff experience for the rookies, despite the Heat being promptly eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers. With Ware averaging strong numbers in the second half of the season, the Heat anticipates greater expectations for both players in their upcoming seasons.
Kel'el and Pelle got that experience, and got it in a hard way. These are tough lessons, as they usually are in a playoff setting.
After being moved into a full-time starting role, Ware averaged 10.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks per game.
It will be an important summer for Ware and Larsson, as more will be expected from them in their second NBA seasons.
While the Heat was swept out of the first round, Ware started and played double-digit minutes in each of his first four NBA playoff games.
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