Latest news with #JaimeJaquezJr
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. details ‘adjustment period' after frustrating 2nd season
The post Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. details 'adjustment period' after frustrating 2nd season appeared first on ClutchPoints. With the Miami Heat trading Haywood Highsmith to the Brooklyn Nets, that leaves a hole for someone in the rotation to get more opportunity, with one option being Jaime Jaquez Jr., entering his third season. As the Heat's young forward is coming off a sophomore slump after an impressive rookie year, he would speak about the work he's put in. Besides Jaquez having to work through his flaws, one of the aspects in his 'adjustment period,' as he puts it, is putting into perspective the amount of changes that happen on a team through a few seasons. Besides Highsmith, players not on the team from last season anymore include Kevin Love, Duncan Robinson, Kyle Anders, and Alec Biurks. 'It's starting to become the reality,' Jaquez said, according to The Miami Herald. 'I think your rookie year, you go through it and it's an adjustment. Now your second year, I think you really start to understand what it means to be in this business. Guys that you've built a relationship with are no longer going to be there. It's definitely going to be an adjustment period, but we're just really excited to get new guys and have this new team and try to win games.' Jaquez made the most of his opportunities in his first season in 2023-24, earning back-to-back Rookie of the Month honors and making the NBA All-Rookie first team. 'I'm feeling great right now,' Jaquez said. 'I've been doing a lot of work. I've been in Los Angeles just training every day, and it's been great. It's been great to get away. It was good to be home for quite a significant period of time…I'm just super excited to get this season started and go win some games.' Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. on what he's working to improve While the Heat's 2025-26 full schedule has been released, this upcoming season is no doubt crucial for Jaquez and his development, as it was apparent that in his regression, opposing defenses were figuring him out. Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra mentioned throughout the first two seasons that it would be a focus for Jaquez to adapt to other teams. Jaquez is known for his physical playstyle in driving down the lane and using contact to get the advantage at the rim, which was less effective last season. He would start to shoot from deep more, but it wasn't always as efficient as last season, he averaged 8.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting 46.1 percent from the field and 31.1 percent from beyond the arc. The UCLA product would say that he's been delving into the film, honing his strengths, plus working on shooting and his defense. 'Just going back and watching some film,' Jaquez said of what he has done this offseason to try to get his game back on track. 'I think that's a big one. Just remembering what it was that put me on the floor, what it was that got me to this position. Just kind of leaning into my strengths, as well as working on things that I need to work on, like shooting and defense. And just bringing it all together as a whole, I think, is one of the biggest things for me this offseason. I've been doing a great job, my trainer out there is really helping me through this process, and it has been great.' Jaime Jaquez Jr. on the Heat trading Haywood Highsmith With the Heat's young star looking to tackle the 2025-26 season with major expectations, his number might be called upon more due to the departures, as said before. Subsequently, with the recent news about Highsmith, it could lead to extended minutes from Jaquez, though it's bittersweet for the 24-year-0ld. 'Man, it's kind of been like that this summer, this offseason. That's one of my good friends,' Jaquez said Saturday morning before hosting a youth basketball camp. 'We got to build a great relationship. I'm just wishing him all the best in his career and with his time in Brooklyn. I really appreciate the time that we had playing together. Like I said, I'm just wishing him all the best.' At any rate, Jaquez and Miami are looking to improve after finishing with a 37-45 record, which put them 10th in the Eastern Conference. Consequently, the Heat open the preseason in Puerto Rico, facing the Orlando Magic on Oct. 4, and also open the regular season against the same team on Oct. 22. Related: Miami Heat 2025 NBA Cup East Group C predictions Related: Why Heat trading Haywood Highsmith creates flexibility
Daily Mail
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
NBA star recalls meeting his girlfriend on wild tequila binge after draft night... but things ended in disaster
The NBA Draft night is a life-changing event for any basketball player but the Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. has revealed that he took things to another level in 2023. Jaquez Jr. was the 18th pick at the glitzy event in New York by the Heat and understandably wanted to celebrate his step into the NBA on a night out in the city that never sleeps. A landmark moment in his life took an extra extravagant turn, he revealed in an interview on the 'Straight to Cam' podcast with WNBA star Cameron Brink, when he met his now girlfriend, the model Dominique Ruotolo. 'I met her in New York on draft night. I was having the time of my life. My dream came true,' he explained. 'I bump into her, literally bump into her, like straight out of a movie. We start talking and chatting, and then as the night progresses, we were having a great time, talking and getting to know each other.' But if things felt too good to be true for Jaquez Jr., now 24, it's because they probably were. The amount of tequila he had been drinking was catching up with him. He continued: 'I'm like (to Ruotolo), "Let's get out of here. Let's go get some pizza or something." She was like, 'Okay, let's go."' 'As soon as I got in the Uber, and the loud music and the lights stopped going, I realized, "Oh wow. I can't go get pizza. I need to go home."' 'She was like, "What do you mean?" I was like, "I'm not okay. Please take me home." 'She's like, "Wait, what do you mean? You're taking me to your hotel? Who are you? I don't know you," and I said, "Please, just take me home."' Things got worse for Jaquez Jr when he got back to his room - where his brother was waiting for him. 'She ends up taking me to my hotel. She takes me up to my room, my brother is asleep and he's like, "What is going on?" And I end up making a beeline for the bathroom,' Jaquez said. 'You guys can put the story together from there. I ended up dying.' The next morning, the new NBA star began his day by sending a groveling apology to Ruotolo, who was understanding and forgiving. But it still took Jaquez Jr. another three months to rebuild the courage to ask her out again. 'We didn't talk for about three months. I'm living my life, she's living hers,' he said, before a friend suggested he invited her out when he was in Los Angeles. 'She came, brought her friends, and the rest is history. We hit it off that night. Fell in love so quick. She forgave me for my dark moment. And yeah, we hit it off. I had just drank straight tequila all night. My boys are crazy.' Jaquez Jr. and the Heat made the postseason playoffs in the 2024-25 season but were ruthlessly swept 4-0 by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
2 Trade Deals Between Lakers And Heat That Could Perfectly Work For Both Teams
2 Trade Deals Between Lakers And Heat That Could Perfectly Work For Both Teams originally appeared on Fadeaway World. In the rather crazy landscape of NBA offseason trades so far, the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat are reportedly circling each other, with two interesting swap scenarios quietly gathering momentum. Each offers a compelling win-win, but the real intrigue lies in the details of what we propose. Advertisement In a bold flip, one scenario would send a polished wing with a championship pedigree to L.A., a player who's both a defensive asset and a capable scorer, in exchange for a pair of promising role players and a future draft pick. A second proposal sees the Lakers moving a burgeoning two-way guard to Miami, hoping to deepen their guard rotation, while reclaiming another rising talent along with a first-rounder. At the heart of both ideas? Andrew Wiggins, whose blend of size, defense, and streaky scoring continues to fuel trade whispers. And not far behind: Jaime Jaquez Jr., the Heat rookie standout whose high-motor, two-way feel has made him an intriguing piece for contending teams. Over the next few paragraphs, we'll break down how each package aligns with L.A.'s championship timeline around LeBron James and Luka Doncic and Miami's youth-driven rebuild, and whether both teams could walk away feeling like winners. Lakers Add Andrew Wiggins To Fortify Their Perimeter Defense Mar 21, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) drives past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) in the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins Miami Heat Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2032 second-round pick (LAL) Across the 2024-25 season, Andrew Wiggins posted a solid 18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 2.6 APG across 30.7 minutes per game, shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.4% from three. But it's his stalwart defense that makes him invaluable to Los Angeles. Wiggins ranked highly in defensive rating among his teammates and opponents in Golden State, routinely tasked with guarding the opposition's top wing scorer, and logging 1.0 steals and 0.8 blocks per game. Advertisement In a championship-caliber Lakers setup, Wiggins would fill the critical 3-and-D wing niche next to their superstar duo, plugging into rotations seamlessly. His 56.6% true shooting paints a picture of efficiency, while his length and versatility match up well with modern positionless NBA offenses. The Lakers' appeal is obvious: a proven two-way starter with playoff experience, unmatched size (6'7", 197 lbs), and a championship ring on his resume. Heading into next season, the defense-first Lakers need a reliable perimeter stopper; Wiggins checks that box. The Heat would bolster depth and future upside by receiving two rotation players, Rui Hachimura (13.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG) and Jarred Vanderbilt (4.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG), plus a 2032 second-round pick. For L.A., this trade cements their perimeter defense without sacrificing cap space or top-tier assets. A Clever Trade To Improve Their Bench By Involving Dalton Knecht Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jaime Jacquez Jr. Miami Heat Receive: Dalton Knecht, 2031 first-round pick (LAL) At just 24, Jaime Jaquez Jr. has already proven his two-way prowess for Miami, averaging 8.6 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 2.5 APG in 20.7 minutes per game, while shooting a reliable 46.1% from the field. He's shown a knack for timely scoring, highlighted by a 41-point, 10-rebound, 7-assist explosion in April, and delivers consistent hustle and energy off the bench. Advertisement Jaquez's versatility, guarding wings, pressing the pace, and even playmaking fit perfectly with the Lakers' identity. His 6'6", 225 lb frame and developing three-point shot (31.1%) add value as a multi-positional rotation piece. For L.A., this trade brings back a young, ascending guard who can step into critical bench minutes, with room to grow and contribute immediately. Miami, in turn, gains guard Dalton Knecht (9.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG), who'd shore up their backcourt depth, and a 2031 first-round pick from Los Angeles. It's a smart move for the Heat: they diversify their guard rotation now and add future draft capital for rebuilding or flipping. Related: The Best Lakers Targets Right Now: Shooter, 3-And-D Wing, Power Forward A 2-Trade Deal That Works Out For Both Teams Put together, these trades represent a comprehensive two-for-one swap: Los Angeles shores up starters with Andrew Wiggins and beefs up the second unit with Jaquez Jr., while Miami dives deeper into youth and potential with Knecht, Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and multiple picks on the table. Each team walks away with clearly defined roles filled, aligned with their objectives: the Lakers gear up for a deep playoff run, whereas the Heat stay future-flexible. Advertisement Statistically and stylistically, it's a clean fit: Wiggins brings veteran defense, Jaquez Jr. injects energy and multi-positional value, and Miami doesn't just lose players, they gain draft flexibility and foundational pieces. And with Wiggins and Jaquez Jr. teased as the marquee returns, the buzz is all about positioning: can L.A. maximize perimeter reliability, and will Miami develop their next wave of contributors? Ultimately, this dual-package trade offers clarity and balance, two teams retooling in ways that feel both coherent and competitive. Related: Lakers Have No Regrets About Signing Deandre Ayton And Choosing Size Over Culture This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Heat Declined Suns' Final Offer For Kevin Durant That Included Three Young Players And Draft Capital
Heat Declined Suns' Final Offer For Kevin Durant That Included Three Young Players And Draft Capital originally appeared on Fadeaway World. In a decision that may come back to haunt them, the Miami Heat reportedly walked away from a final opportunity to land Kevin Durant. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Phoenix Suns made one last trade offer to Miami for the two-time Finals MVP, but the Heat declined. Advertisement The proposed package included Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Haywood Highsmith, the No. 20 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and additional draft capital. The Suns, who were determined to move Durant this summer, ultimately pivoted to the Houston Rockets after Miami stepped back. Durant was traded to the Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick, and five second-round selections. But before that deal came together, the Suns had been engaged in multiple rounds of talks with Miami, one of the few teams Durant was reportedly willing to commit to long-term. The Heat had their chance but ultimately decided to hold onto their young core. From a developmental standpoint, the players Miami refused to part with are intriguing but not untouchable. Jaime Jaquez Jr., who turned heads during his rookie season, averaged 8.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 46.1% shooting in his second year. He brings toughness, intelligence, and a versatile skill set that fits the Heat culture. Nikola Jovic showed flashes as a stretch-forward, putting up 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists while shooting 37.1% from three. Haywood Highsmith quietly became a strong role player, averaging 6.5 points and shooting 38.2% from deep. Advertisement While these numbers suggest potential, none of them scream future star. A player like Durant, who still averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 52.7% from the field and 43% from deep last season, could've instantly elevated Miami into title contention. Especially in an Eastern Conference that feels wide open heading into 2025-26. The Celtics are facing injury uncertainty and tax-related constraints. The Pacers, though impressive in reaching the Finals, still are invincible. The Knicks don't have a settled coaching situation. The Cavaliers, who swept the Heat in the first round, have internal questions around fit and consistency. With Jimmy Butler gone and Bam Adebayo in his prime, this might have been Miami's last best shot to build a legitimate title contender in the short term. Reports indicate that the Heat had already placed former lottery pick Kel'el Ware off-limits, seeing him as a potential future cornerstone. That made Durant's acquisition harder to justify without gutting their remaining youth. But in hindsight, the price offered doesn't seem unreasonable for a player of Durant's caliber, especially one who reportedly would've signed off on the move. Advertisement Now, Durant heads to Houston, a team loaded with young talent and cap flexibility. Miami, meanwhile, faces another summer of searching for answers. They finished 8th in the East this past season at 37-45 and were swept by the Cavaliers in the first round after trading Butler midseason. The clock is ticking on the Bam Adebayo era, and the window may be narrowing faster than Pat Riley and the Heat front office realize. Passing on Durant might've preserved their youth, but at the cost of another shot at a championship. Related: Kevin Durant Finds Out He's Been Traded To Rockets During Fanatics Fest Appearance This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 22, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Proposed Heat-Kings Trade Featuring DeMar DeRozan Sparks Strong Fan Pushback
Proposed Heat-Kings Trade Featuring DeMar DeRozan Sparks Strong Fan Pushback originally appeared on Athlon Sports. A proposed trade scenario involving the Miami Heat and Sacramento Kings caught fans' attention this week. The trade suggests sending Duncan Robinson, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Pelle Larsson to the Kings in exchange for DeMar DeRozan. Advertisement The idea was shared on social media by Heat Lead, asking fans, 'Who says no?' Miami HEAT UK responded, 'Can't find the vocabulary to explain how dumb this would be.' The reaction reflects the sentiment many Heat fans expressed. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports Robinson has been a long-tenured shooter in the Heat's system. Robinson helps the offense with his shooting and spacing. He's been a steady piece in the rotation. Jaquez Jr. just wrapped up an impressive rookie year. Fans like his growth and potential. Larsson is still new, but his all-around game stands out. DeRozan brings experience and scoring. He's known for his midrange game. But fans worry about his contract and how well he fits the Heat's defense. Many noted the age difference and long-term costs involved. Advertisement The reaction on social media leaned heavily against the move. Fans questioned the value exchange, pointing to the loss of two core rotation players and a promising young guard. Some described the trade as one-sided, citing DeRozan's age and declining three-point production. At this stage, no reports suggest the trade is under actual discussion between the franchises. The scenario remains speculative and a topic for fan debate. It has, however, highlighted the growing support for the Heat's young core and the hesitance to break it up for short-term gains. This online response shows that while DeRozan is respected, many Heat fans would prefer continuity over risk. Related: DeMar Derozan Climbs NBA All-Time Scoring List, Passes Reggie Miller Related: Duncan Robinson Injury Status Gets Very Positive Update This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
