Nikola Jovic Has A Growing Role On The Miami Heat
Nikola Jovic is making his case to gain an even bigger role in the Miami Heat's rotation.
Jovic has made 15 starts in 23 games this season. He started the last three games, all of which were wins against playoff teams.
Jovic made his way into the starting lineup after Terry Rozier and Josh Richardson were both injured against the Boston Celtics. He had a career-high 24 points in a blowout win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Jovic has played at least 17 minutes in the Heat’s most recent wins against the Philadelphia 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans.
Jovic, who was drafted in the first round in 2022, averaged just more than 13 minutes in 15 games during his rookie year. He has developed throughout the year and has now started 13 of his past 16 games. He has a +77 as a starter this year and the Heat have an above .500 record in those games.
Multiple players have stepped up for the Heat while battling injuries throughout the season. Jaime Jaquez Jr. gained a prominent role as he proved himself as a young NBA player. Duncan Robinson and Haywood Highsmith are examples of other role players who have stepped up at times.
It could now be Jovic’s turn.
He may see his minutes reduced once the Heat become healthier. Until then, he should continue to provide valuable floor time for a team that has won seven of its past ten games and is in prime position to climb the Eastern Conference standings after the All-Star break.
Casey Fahrer is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at caseyfahrer716@gmail.com.
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