Overview

• Erik Spoelstra praised Jakučionis as an ultra competitor and likened his practice battles with Davion Mitchell to two pit bulls.
• Jakučionis missed Thursday’s practice with a sprained left wrist, but imaging was negative and he downplayed the issue.
• With Tyler Herro, Terry Rozier and Pelle Larsson sidelined, the rookie has a pathway to earn early backcourt rotation minutes.
• The Heat have been encouraged by his defense and energy dating to Summer League, though shooting efficiency and turnovers are still questions.
• Miami opens the preseason Saturday in Puerto Rico against the Magic, and Jakučionis’ availability has not been announced.