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Heat’s Nikola Jovic Calls Slump Mental as Spoelstra Emphasizes Rhythm

Coach Erik Spoelstra emphasizes rhythm built through daily work.

Overview

  • Jovic said he has been hunting shots because he worries about minutes, adding that the funk bothers him but he expects it to be short-lived.
  • After a four-game absence with a hip impingement, he was available against the Bucks but did not play, then logged 10 minutes against the Pistons with two points, five turnovers and a -15 plus-minus.
  • Spoelstra rejected a confidence-based narrative, saying Jovic needs rhythm, attention to detail and consistent work after being sidetracked by injury.
  • Through the early season, Jovic is averaging 8.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists on 40.2 percent shooting, including 29.4 percent from three.
  • Miami’s depth has tightened the rotation and constrained his role, even as the organization’s $62.4 million extension signals a longer-term investment.