Summer League spotlight: Jakucionis steady in loss as Heat fall to Pistons
Rookie guard leads short-handed Miami squad with a well-rounded effort
LAS VEGAS — On Thursday afternoon, with several key players out, rookie guard Kasparas Jakucionis took center stage for the Miami Heat in their Summer League matchup against the Detroit Pistons. Though the Heat suffered a 108–88 loss at UNLV’s Cox Pavilion, the game gave Jakucionis a chance to showcase flashes of his potential.
Leading the way
With first-round pick Kel’el Ware and returning players Pelle Larsson and Keshad Johnson unavailable, the Heat turned to Jakucionis as a primary option. The 6-foot-6 Lithuanian guard finished with 15 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while hitting all six of his free throw attempts. He went 4-of-12 from the field, including just 1-of-6 from three-point range, and committed five turnovers, but showed poise in stretches, particularly with his ability to attack the basket and initiate offense.
Jakucionis had a slow start, missing his first few attempts before finding rhythm in the second quarter. He’s shown defensive instincts throughout Summer League and continues to build confidence as a playmaker under pressure.
Support from Miami’s depth
The Heat started a lineup featuring Jakucionis, Vladislav Goldin, Erik Stevenson, Marcus Williams, and Dain Dainja. With limited roster depth late in Summer League, several players stepped up. Myron Gardner, returning from a minor injury, led Miami with 19 points, while Stevenson added 15 of his own. Goldin, filling in at center, contributed six points and five rebounds in 20 minutes of play.
Learning moments
Despite the score, Thursday’s game offered valuable reps for Miami’s younger players. Jakucionis has had an up-and-down showing in Las Vegas, but his energy and versatility have kept him in the spotlight. With one final game left on Miami’s Summer League schedule, he’ll look to finish strong and leave a lasting impression heading into training camp.
Final game ahead
The Heat will close out their Summer League slate on Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks. Though they’ve been eliminated from tournament contention, the game provides one more opportunity for players like Jakucionis to earn a longer look from coaches and scouts ahead of the upcoming NBA season.
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Category: Sports
Subcategory: Local Teams
Date: 07/18/2025
