Miami Heat: A deep dive into the hottest team in the NBA

By Justin Chen | Nov 18, 2023

MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 16: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat reacts after making a basket during the third quarter of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Kaseya Center on November 16, 2023 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

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Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Josh Richardson

Talk about trial by fire. Despite being a rookie, Spo has trusted Jaime Jaquez Jr. a ton to begin this season. “Juan Wick”, as nicknamed by some Heat fans, has played around 23 minutes per contest and has started some games on occasion as well.

Though he had a slow start, including a horrid 1-9 shooting performance against the Brooklyn Nets, he has since rebounded, finding his spots more. He’s scored in double-figures in the last four games, stepping up in Herro’s absence and it’s been much needed.

More of a post-player and mid-range specialist, Jaquez Jr.’s defensive play has also been a pleasant surprise. A good perimeter defender, he’s held the likes of Jayson Tatum to seven points on 3-8 shooting, Trae Young to three points on 1-4 shooting and Anthony Edwards to zero points on 0-3 shooting when switched onto them.

If the rookie can keep this up, then missing out on Dame would not be as big of a miss as people make it out to be.

The return of Josh Richardson has paid dividends so far. Though he got off to a slow start, J-Rich has scored in double-figures in three of the seven winning games. On a veteran minimum, he’s slipped into the role Vincent and Strus had but with the cheap contract, it’s turning out to be a steal.

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