UCLA Basketball: Why Rookie Ex-Bruin Won’t Make New NBA Team’s Rotation
Former UCLA Bruins forward Jamie Jaquez Jr. has been getting a ton of attention during training camp with the Miami Heat, and rightfully so. He shot up draft boards, and Miami took him in the first round.
However, he has been dealing with a groin issue of late, and his status for the opening night may be in jeopardy. Miami Heat insider Ira Winderman of The South Sentinel provided an update on the former Bruin and gave some insight into his status for the regular season opener.
“With Jaime dealing with a groin strain and Jovic with a knee bruise, those are the types of ailments that can linger, even with coach Erik Spoelstra insisting on day-to-day designations with the team’s current injuries. For veterans such as Jimmy Butler, Josh Richardson and Caleb Martin, they know what it takes to get their bodies to the starting line, with the expectations of all three being ready for the Oct. 25 season opener against the Pistons. As it was, it would have been difficult for Jaime and Nikola to crack the opening-night rotation. Now that appears particularly unlikely.”
He landed on possibly the perfect team due to his work ethic and his ability to stay focused in games. Jaquez Jr. could give Miami some real firepower off the bench and give them another boost they lacked last season.
This guy can score from almost everywhere on the court, but he does need to improve his three-point shooting. If he can consistently knock down three-point shots this season, it would help his case to stay on the floor.
The name of the game in today's NBA is hitting three-pointers, so Jaquez Jr. will need to make sure he improves things. Miami loves to have plenty of guys spacing the floor next to their two-star players, and if he can prove his worth, he will get significant minutes.
Hopefully, the injury to Jaquez Jr. isn't too serious, and he can come back to the team soon. He is in line for a great rookie season, and all Bruins fans want to see what he can do.
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