Why Jaime Jaquez Jr.'s start to season is encouraging for Heat

"Much of it was marred by a groin injury and illness, limiting his effectiveness. He averaged just 8.7 points on 54.3 percent true shooting in 66 games, essentially being relegated to the back-end of the Heat rotation, where his role shrank. His 3-point shooting plateaued; he had zero burst; his drives were very predictable; and he topped it up with poor individual and team defense."

"The 6-foot-6 forward spoke about how his confidence has been able to grow from the team's fast-paced offense after Friday's dominant win against the Memphis Grizzlies. "I think being able to get into the paint is something I'm really good at," Jaquez said after the Heat's 146-114 blowout victory against Memphis. "It makes it easier. Everyone's moving. Reads are easier - the decision-maker becomes a lot easier, and everyone becomes a recipient.""

"A huge reason for the Heat's ability to push the pace has started on the defensive end. Miami's totaled 24 steals, the third-most in the NBA, leading to 39 points-off-turnovers (T-13 most). This clip above is one example of that. Jaquez, defending Tyus Jones, doubles Paolo Banchero with his back turned at the nail, deflecting the pass as he tries to skip it to Jones in the opposite corner. Bam Adebayo corrals the pass and finds Jaquez on the hit"

Jaime Jaquez Jr. endured a difficult sophomore season marked by a groin injury and illness that limited his effectiveness. He averaged 8.7 points with a 54.3 percent true shooting rate across 66 games and saw his role shrink to the back end of the rotation. His three-point shooting plateaued, explosiveness declined, drives became predictable, and both individual and team defense were subpar. He will be extension eligible after this season. Without Jimmy Butler, the Heat are pushing the pace early, generating steals and points off turnovers. Jaquez has shown renewed confidence, improved ability to get into the paint, and benefits from increased movement and transition opportunities.

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