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Heat Rookie Kasparas Jakucionis Earns Praise After 12-8-5 vs. Celtics

Erik Spoelstra highlighted the 19-year-old’s readiness during a rare extended run.

Overview

  • In 27 minutes off the bench, the 20th pick posted 12 points, eight assists and five rebounds, hitting 3-of-4 from deep in a 119-114 defeat.
  • Erik Spoelstra called him “one of the bright spots,” citing his fearlessness and playmaking with Davion Mitchell out.
  • Bam Adebayo said the rookie has a bright future because he plays fast, overcommunicates and commits to team instruction.
  • He remains largely outside the regular rotation at 4.3 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game, with room to grow in ballhandling, off-ball defense and finishing.
  • The performance stood out on a night Miami squandered a 15-point second-half lead, dropping to 21-20 after being outscored 43-21 down the stretch.