"In order for Kasparas Jakucionis to become the steal so many NBA draft pundits made him out to be, he'll need to have much better fortune on the health front. It's not even the end of preseason yet, and Miami's prized pick has already encountered two injury issues: first, a sprained wrist, and now hip soreness. While neither ailment is considered serious, the 19-year-old is still missing out on developmental reps that his struggles at summer league suggested he really needs."
"Moreover, he might be missing out on an opportunity to carve out his spot in the regular-season rotation, which would be, objectively speaking, a huge bummer, since his playmaking prowess could help this offense where it most needs a lift. Hopes remain high for Jakucionis, but if his availability issues persist, he won't even get the chance to be the dream-come-true so many envisioned on draft night."
"Between Davion Mitchell, Dru Smith, and yes, Terry Rozier, the Heat have three players not named Jakucionis who can run point in Tyler Herro's absence. And that's before getting into any funky combinations that Erik Spoelstra's creative coaching mind might be running through. In other words, Miami was never going to just hand over minutes to Jakucionis. His role, however big it was supposed to be, would have to be earned."
Kasparas Jakucionis missed developmental reps after a sprained wrist and later hip soreness during preseason. Neither ailment is considered serious, but the 19-year-old has appeared in only two of the team's first five preseason games. The missed reps could hinder his ability to carve out regular-season rotation minutes despite notable playmaking that could boost the offense. Miami has alternative ballhandlers in Davion Mitchell, Dru Smith, and Terry Rozier capable of running point in Tyler Herro's absence. Minutes must be earned, and persistent availability issues could prevent Jakucionis from securing his intended role. He has averaged a team-high 5.5 assists in limited preseason action.
Read at All U Can Heat
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