Heat have found perfect player to fit archetype Erik Spoelstra loves

"Some fans don't understand it, but it's easy to see why Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra values Dru Smith. It's because he falls right in line with previous developmental success stories of guards who can't really shoot the basketball efficiently, but can do virtually everything else. Smith epitomizes Heat culture, and in small doses, has proven to be quite productive for the organization. Perhaps most importantly, he's a true competitor. And that's what Spo has to like best."

"In his third season with the Heat, Smith is averaging seven points and three assists on 42 percent shooting from 3-point range. No, these are not numbers that are going to blow anyone away, but his impact goes well beyond the stat sheet. Smith is one of those players who often gets overlooked, and one whose contributions are forgotten in the moment. However, when looking back, he's also a player that every winning team feeds off of."

Smith is a versatile, high-energy guard whose strengths are defense, hustle, playmaking, and fit within the Heat system despite limited shooting efficiency. He follows the developmental profile of Norris Cole and Gabe Vincent by doing many non-scoring tasks and accepting a complementary role. In limited minutes he produces impact that exceeds conventional statistics, averaging seven points and three assists while shooting 42 percent from three in his third season. He doesn't require the ball to be effective and projects as a reliable depth piece who could take on a larger role if the roster changes at the trade deadline.

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