Latest news with #Heat
Miami Herald
4 hours ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Greg Cote's Poll Dance: What's your level of support for Heat's Pat Riley? Vote now!
Note to readers: The Poll Dance and Hot Button Top 10 are taking next Sunday off for the long holiday weekend. See you back here with a new edition of each on July 13! Pat Riley since joining the Miami Heat in 1995, first as head coach and later as club president, has drafted Dwayne Wade, promoted Erik Spoelstra, signed LeBron James, and overseen three NBA championships -- among other successes and accomplishments that over 30 years have made him a towering figure in South Florida sports history. But he is not above criticism. Now 80, Riley's Heat have not won it all since 2013, and the misses have outnumbered the hits lately in the whale-hunting category, most recently going after but failing to close a trade for Kevin Durant. I would hope Riley might still have the broad faith and support of most Heat fans. But you also see and hear lots of game-has-passed-him-by rhetoric on social media. So you be the judge, right here. Take our latest Poll Dance and vote for which option best reflects how you feel about Riley today. Vote as many times as you'd like or until your fingers ache. GREG COTE POLL DANCE: ON PAT RILEY: Previous Poll Dance verdict: It's Bob in close vote for Panthers playoff MVP: We asked, 'Who was the MVP of the Florida Panthers' postseason championship run?' With 10 on the ballot including two non-players and a big response, you said: Sergei Bobrovsky 25%; Sam Bennett 23%, Brad Marchand 22%, Aleksander Barkov 11%; GM Bill Zito 10%; and coach Paul Maurice 6%. Note: Gustav Forsling, Sam Reinhart and Matthew Tkachuk split remaining 3%. Carter Verhaeghe received no votes.
Miami Herald
8 hours ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Heat introduces first-round draft pick Kasparas Jakucionis: ‘It doesn't feel real yet'
Just a month after celebrating his 19th birthday, Kasparas Jakucionis is an NBA player. Moments after posing for photos with his new Miami Heat jersey while standing between Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and Heat president Pat Riley, the skilled Lithuanian guard admitted the last few days have been surreal. 'It's a different feeling,' Jakucionis said during his introductory press conference at Kaseya Center on Friday afternoon. 'It's so hard to describe in words. It doesn't feel real yet. So I'm still kind of trying to figure everything out. But it doesn't feel real.' But it is real, as the Heat selected Jakucionis with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft held Wednesday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Jakucionis, who turned 19 on May 29, doesn't have much time to let it sink in with summer league looming. He'll travel to San Francisco early next week to begin practicing with the Heat's summer league team on Wednesday. 'Just playing in summer league, try to get to know the game a little bit and just dive into the process,' Jakucionis said of the experience ahead. Summer league will provide the first glimpse at Jakucionis' intriguing skill set that led to many draft experts projecting him to be a lottery pick before he ended up falling to the Heat at No. 20. Jakucionis brings size to the position at 6-foot-5 and 205 pounds with a 6-foot-8 wingspan, and comes with the versatility to play as a lead guard but also as a secondary ball-handler. After moving from Lithuania at 15 to play basketball in Spain for three years in Barcelona, Jakucionis moved to the United States to play college basketball at Illinois. He 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. Jakucionis now faces another transition, as he moves into the NBA. 'I think every time I moved somewhere else, especially from home when I was just 15, it helped me grow as a person and as a player,' he said. 'I learned new cultures, played different styles of games because Spain is different than Lithuania. Then I moved to Illinois, another adjustment to play basketball in the United States. I think all of these adjustments give me more experience. Obviously, it's a process and I can't wait to start working.' Jakucionis' top skills are his playmaking and passing ability, especially in pick-and-rolls. That's a skill set that should help a Heat roster in need of creativity and playmaking on offense, and it should really help Heat big men Bam Adebayo and Kel'el Ware as roll men. Jakucionis is also a quality finisher at the rim, shooting 65% around the basket in half-court settings during his lone season at Illinois despite none of those makes being dunks, according to Synergy. He also has a knack for drawing fouls, shooting an efficient 84.5% on 5.1 free-throw attempts per game. But there are some questions surrounding Jakucionis' three-point shooting (shot 31.8 percent on 5.2 three-point attempts per game at Illinois last season), turnover-prone play (averaged 3.7 turnovers per game last season) and defensive ability at the NBA level. 'Definitely it's exciting to improve that,' Jakucionis said of the opportunity to become a better defender in the Heat's system. 'I always give 100 percent and just try to help the team and be the best version of me on that end of the floor, too.' When asked which players he watches when trying to add to his game, Jakucionis pointed to Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic and talented Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard. 'I like to be myself,' Jakucionis said. 'But also I like to take something from other players, too. When I was little, I was watching Luka when he was still in Madrid. I moved to Spain after, too. I watch his playmaking. I like how Andrew Nembhard gives 100 percent on both ends of the floor, trying to do the right play and play the game the right way and shoot open shots. I would say those two the most, but I just like to be myself.' Jakucionis will become the fourth active Lithuanian player in the NBA, joining Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis, and Sacramento Kings centers Domantas Sabonis and Jonas Valanciunas. But unlike Heat teammates Nikola Jovic (Serbia) and Pelle Larsson (Sweden), Jakucionis does not plan on taking part in EuroBasket 2025 later this offseason. 'It's amazing,' Jakucionis said of representing Lithuania at the NBA level. 'Lithuania is not a big country. There's only 2.5 million people, but everybody loves basketball and everybody is trying to make the best out of it and everybody supports it.' But along with representing his Lithuanian roots, Jakucionis' time in Spain also left an imprint on him. He speaks fluent Spanish and even answered a question in Spanish during his introductory press conference on Friday. 'I love Spanish,' Jakucionis said. 'When I lived in Spain, I just learned it pretty quick. So I'm excited to be here because there's some Latin culture and a lot of people speak Spanish.' The Heat announced Friday that Jakucionis will wear No. 25, which has also been worn by former Heat players Orlando Robinson, Kendrick Nunn, Jordan Mickey, Wayne Simien, Anthony Carter, Jeff Malone and Milt Wagner. Jakucionis wore No. 32 at Illinois, but couldn't continue wearing that number because the Heat retired it for Hall of Fame center Shaquille O'Neal. So Jakucionis took some time to think about his new number before picking No. 25. 'A couple reasons,' Jakucionis said of his decision to wear No. 25 with the Heat. 'First, I was wearing No. 32. But before I was wearing No. 7 and the national team I was wearing No. 7 all the time. So 32 minus 7 is 25, my sister's favorite number is 25, her birthday is on the 25th of July, also I got drafted in 2025 and on June 25. So there's a lot that goes into it.' Jakucionis still has plenty to figure out as a fresh-faced 19-year-old. The Heat's offense badly needs Jakucionis' on-ball creativity after finishing with a bottom-10 offensive rating in each of the last three seasons, but he'll also need time to develop as one of the youngest players the Heat has ever drafted. But Jakucionis is already well aware of the Heat's famed 'culture' and he feels like he'll fit right in. 'It's a winning culture,' Jakucionis said. 'All the time, trying to do everything possible to win and give all-out effort every day and the toughness. I just love winning. I try to do everything possible for the team to win, try to work hard and be the best version of myself for the team to win.'
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Heat rumors: Zach Lowe praises Kevin Durant trade decision
The post Heat rumors: Zach Lowe praises Kevin Durant trade decision appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Miami Heat were among several teams engaged in trade talks for Kevin Durant before the Phoenix Suns dealt the 36-year-old forward to the Houston Rockets. Despite having the assets to potentially outbid Houston, Miami opted to hold firm in negotiations — an approach that NBA analyst Zach Lowe supported during a recent episode of The Zach Lowe Show. Advertisement Lowe praised Miami's decision not to pursue Durant at all costs, noting that the organization likely went through internal reflection before deciding against a full-throttle push. 'I think the Heat doing that is a very look-in-the-mirror moment for Pat Riley that was probably difficult,' Lowe said. 'You know Pat Riley wants to go for it, and you know that the Heat could beat the offer that eventually got Kevin Durant. And I think calmer winds prevail.' Miami's reported reluctance to include rookie big man Kel'el Ware or other key young players became a sticking point in negotiations. While Durant remains one of the league's most efficient offensive weapons, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists on 52.7% shooting during the 2024–25 season, questions about his durability at age 36 factored into the Heat's stance. Advertisement 'It's not going to be good enough,' Lowe continued. 'They like all of us watched these playoffs… the depth, the ferocity, the toll it takes on your body and just asked themselves like, 'can we depend on 38-year-old Kevin Durant surviving those playoffs healthy… while playing high-level basketball that this team stripped of its depth is going to need him to play,' and they just said no. And I don't blame them for that decision at all.' Heat refused to include key young players and picks in Kevin Durant trade Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports The Rockets ultimately acquired Durant in a deal that included Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and five second-round selections. ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel reported that Miami's final offer featured Andrew Wiggins and the No. 20 pick, though Phoenix opted for the more aggressive package from Houston. Advertisement 'Their best offer stood with Andrew Wiggins and the 20th pick in this year's draft headlining the deal. Phoenix opted for the 10th pick package.' Additional reporting from ESPN's Shams Charania noted that the Heat declined to include Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Haywood Highsmith, and multiple picks together in any single proposal. 'The Heat made multiple offers for Durant but ultimately turned down the opportunity to place Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Haywood Highsmith, the No. 20 pick and other draft assets all together in a deal, sources said.' Miami, which was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs after securing the No. 8 seed via the Play-In Tournament, now shifts its focus to alternative trade targets. The franchise continues to evaluate upgrades around Bam Adebayo while maintaining flexibility with its young core. Advertisement Durant's move to Houston alters the competitive landscape in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Heat's decision to prioritize long-term sustainability over a high-risk superstar gamble has drawn measured praise as the offseason unfolds. Related: Heat makes Davion Mitchell contract move ahead of free agency Related: NBA rumors: Lakers check in with Heat on Andrew Wiggins trade
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Heat rumors: Miami's draft plans linked to star Florida guard
The post Heat rumors: Miami's draft plans linked to star Florida guard appeared first on ClutchPoints. With the Miami Heat preparing for the NBA Draft with the first round on Wednesday, there are no doubt many fans who have their picks on who the team should select. While the Heat look to avoid making a mistake in the NBA Draft, the team's recent selections have been anything but that, as the latest report connects a college player staying in-state. Advertisement ClutchPoints' NBA insider Brett Siegel would have Miami taking the University of Florida's Walter Clayton Jr. with the 20th overall pick after the guard led his program to a national title. Especially after missing out on trading for Kevin Durant, the team does need another scoring threat and a point guard, which Clayton fills in. Plus, Siegel would report that the Heat picking the Gator has 'gained momentum among league personnel.' 'The Miami Heat are said to be valuing experienced prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft that can provide an instant impact on the court rather than youthful projects with long-term upside,' Siegel wrote. 'As a result, Walter Clayton Jr., who just led Florida to a national championship, can become the Heat's point guard next to Tyler Herro in the backcourt.' 'After missing out on trading for Durant, Miami needs to prioritize finding scoring threats next to Herro and Bam Adebayo,' Siegel continued. 'Outside of Herro, the Heat don't have other lead playmakers in their backcourt, which makes Clayton a high-upside pick for Pat Riley. Clayton to Miami has gained momentum among league personnel in recent days.' Walter Clayton Jr. fits what the Heat needs Scott Wachter-Imagn Images After the Heat wasn't able to land Durant, as mentioned before, the team could look to the draft in building a foundation from their other first-round picks that have been successful. With the main duo of Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro leading Miami, other first-round picks such as last year's Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Nikola Jovic figure to be a big part next season, with Clayton's traits likely to fit in nicely. Advertisement 'Clayton is a dynamic scorer and finisher with the ball in his hands who doesn't back down from a challenge,' Siegel wrote. 'He may be listed at 6-foot-2, but Clayton never shies away from contact and proved to be one of the best perimeter players off the dribble in the draft when he led the Gators to a title.' At any rate, Miami is looking to improve after finishing with a 37-45 record, which put them 10th in the Eastern Conference before they were swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Related: Heat's 10 worst NBA Draft day mistakes in history Related: Heat rumors: Miami's final Kevin Durant offer prior to Rockets trade, revealed
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Why Heat must do everything in their power to re-sign Davion Mitchell
The post Why Heat must do everything in their power to re-sign Davion Mitchell appeared first on ClutchPoints. As the Miami Heat enter a crucial offseason where they look to vastly improve after a tenth seed finish and a dreadful sweep in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, there is a lateral move to make that would be a solid first step. While the Heat are surrounded by Kevin Durant rumors and other big names, one decision that has to be made includes the status of Davion Mitchell. Advertisement Acquired via the Jimmy Butler trade before the deadline, Mitchell came from the Toronto Raptors and had an immediate impact on Miami. He had been a seamless fit for the team's culture and tough-minded play, providing defensive intensity and finding top stars Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo in perfect spots. What the Heat are expected to do with Davion Mitchell Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Now, he heads into free agency, where he is set to be a restricted free agent as, according to Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald, the Heat will be extending a qualifying offer, which allows them to match 'outside offers.' As the situation goes, there a numerous amount of avenues this situation could go, but whichever happens, it should end with Mitchell back with Miami. Advertisement 'The Heat is expected to extend an $8.7 million qualifying offer to Mitchell before the June 29 deadline to make him a restricted free agent, allowing Miami to match outside offers in free agency to retain Mitchell,' Chiang wrote. 'If the Heat doesn't extend that qualifying offer, Mitchell would become an unrestricted free agent this offseason and Miami would lose the power to always have an opportunity to match outside offers.' 'Mitchell can return to the Heat on the one-year, $8.7 million qualifying offer that Miami is expected to extend to him in the coming weeks,' Chiang continued. 'But the more likely scenario after Mitchell's strong finish to this season with the Heat is for him to sign an offer sheet with another team when free agency begins on July 1, putting pressure on Miami to decide on how far it's willing to go to keep him. The Heat would then have a few days to decide whether it will match that offer to re-sign Mitchell.' Davion Mitchell's 'amazing fit' with the Heat While the Heat's offseason plans remain to be seen, losing Mitchell would be one that frustrates the team since the 26-year-old impressed many within the organization. Though the aforementioned scenarios with Mitchell could lead to a prolonged process, the payer could also talk with Miami about a new contract. Advertisement 'Mitchell could also simply negotiate a new contract with the Heat for any length and any amount in free agency this summer,' Chiang wrote. 'Miami holds Mitchell's Bird rights, which allow the Heat to exceed the salary cap to re-sign him up to his maximum salary despite already being over the cap.' Even though it's understood that basketball is a business, there's no denying that Mitchell wants to stay with the Heat, speaking of the 'amazing fit' during exit interviews after the team's ugly playoff exit. 'It's an amazing fit,' Mitchell said. 'Everything they do, everything they're about, it's like I really didn't have to do anything. I feel like I'm just here, I feel like I can be free.' 'Haven't really thought about it or talked about it with my representation,' Mitchell continued about his situation. 'I think that there's a long summer that we're going to have a lot of time to talk about it. And when we do, I'll be prepared for that. But as of right now, I don't really know because I've never been in this situation before. So I'm just waiting to talk to my agency.' Davion Mitchell had the best stretch of his career with the Heat The Heat standout in Mitchell brought a plethora of aspects that the team needed from either their starting lineup or from the bench, giving them a spark. He would be a consistent rotational piece since the trade, as he spoke about how he thrived so well with Miami. Advertisement 'Coach Spo told me the first day, 'Just be yourself. I want you to be yourself. Go out there defensively and offensively and play your game. You know how to play the game. Get your teammates involved,' Mitchell said. 'Things that I've been doing since I've been playing basketball, and I had the opportunity to do it here.' 'The past places I've been to, I didn't really have the opportunity,' Mitchell continued. 'I was playing with a lot of good players, so I understood it. 'But being here, I kind of just fit right in. They needed somebody who can be a defensive presence, who can get their teammates open, make my teammates' lives just a lot easier, and I think that's what I did.' This past season, Mitchell averaged 10.3 points, 5.3 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 50.4 percent from the field and 44.7 percent from beyond the arc. The last statistic was one that was huge for the team, as his three-point shooting, along with his defense and point guard abilities, made him a viable asset. 'It's not hard,' Mitchell said. 'It's very simple, just play hard. There's no really tricks or anything. He just wants you to play extremely hard. Honestly, that's how I got in this league, that's who I am. I'm always going to play hard no matter what the circumstances are. So it's pretty easy for me.' Heat's culture is defined by Davion Mitchell With the last Heat season having a lot of lows compared to the highs, Mitchell was one of the positives that came out of a relatively forgettable year. However, it is a valid concern to bring up about overpaying for a player like Mitchell when the team could go after a star like Durant, who would command more financial flexibility. Advertisement Still, it's almost imperative to assess the roster as it was constructed last season and keep the players that made a lasting impression, which no doubt Mitchell falls under. As team president, Pat Riley continues to reinforce the culture that he touts, keeping Mitchell would be a display of that belief. 'Just the culture here, I think I fit completely in,' Mitchell said. 'Since the first day I got here, it was pretty easy to fit in. Everyone is friendly, everyone is cool, everyone loves what I do, everyone loves what I bring to the table.' At any rate, it remains to be seen what the Heat does with Mitchell, but the team itself is looking to improve after finishing with a 37-45 record, which put them 10th in the East, as said before.
