Nikola Jovic finished in double figures for the second time this season to help lead the short-handed Miami Heat on Friday against the host Washington Wizards.
Jovic produced 18 points and six rebounds in 30 minutes of work in the 107-106 overtime loss. He scored 15 points in the first half and became just the third rookie to reach that mark (Paolo Banchero, Shaedon Sharpe). He shot 4-of-10 from the field, including one 3-pointer.
The 27th pick did the majority of his work in the paint. He was successful getting to the rim and drawing contact after going 9-of-10 from the free-throw line.
Erik Spoelstra explained what he likes about Jovic afterward.
He has really good offensive instincts, not only as a passer but as a screener — how to get into open spaces, how to execute different things and then his passing and his vision. As soon as he got here, that was probably his No. 1 strength was his ability to get other guys better.
He is not afraid of the moment. He is comfortable out there. He is earning the respect of everybody in the locker room and he is earning his stripes right now. I was encouraged again by his minutes tonight.
Jovic started for the second straight game as the Heat had just seven players available to play. He started for the first time on Wednesday and recorded 13 points, three rebounds, one assist and one steal in a loss to the Toronto Raptors.
He had logged just 24 total minutes in four games prior to earning the start on Wednesday. He was used primarily in mop-up duty during those appearances and was out of the rotation with so many players ahead of him on the roster.
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With Bam Adebayo (knee), Jimmy Butler (knee), Tyler Herro (ankle) and others out, the Heat have been forced to rely on Jovic. He has responded well in the early going and is happy to be starting now.
“I’m just stacking those minutes and just making sure everyone is getting the ball and getting everyone in their role,” Jovic said. “I’m really happy I’m playing with this team because I’m learning a lot. I’m really confident.”
Jovic entered the season with an uncertain role with so many players ahead of him on the depth chart. He has seemingly stayed ready for his opportunity to play and has responded with two strong performances in a time of need for the Heat.
The recent performances by Jovic have likely helped him continue to see playing time once the team returns to full strength. They liked him in the draft given his prior professional experience and that is now showing on the court.
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