4 Role players who need a big training camp for the Heat

Miami Heat, Nikola Jovic. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Miami Heat, Nikola Jovic. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
3 of 4
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JULY 03: Jaime Jaquez Jr. #11 of the Miami Heat drives to the basket past D’Moi Hodge #55 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half during the 2023 NBA California Classic at Golden 1 Center on July 03, 2023 in Sacramento, California. 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JULY 03: Jaime Jaquez Jr. #11 of the Miami Heat drives to the basket past D’Moi Hodge #55 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half during the 2023 NBA California Classic at Golden 1 Center on July 03, 2023 in Sacramento, California. 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 Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Though Jaquez is a rookie, there’s a multitude of ways that he can help contribute.

He more than likely won’t be a starter, but he could be a part of the wing rotation by the end of training camp by showing he can get to the rim, compete on the defensive end and knock down open 3-pointers.

Jaquez is walking in with low expectations as a rookie, but he was widely considered one of the more NBA-ready prospects in the lead-up to June’s draft. There’s a spot open on the perimeter behind Butler and Caleb Martin, and Jaquez has the tools to earn that spot.

But he can’t let the pressure get to him. Instead, Jaquez just needs to come into training camp and play free. The organization drafted him for a reason and he will have his time but, if you’re Jaquez, why not make it now?