Jaime Jaquez Jr., a rookie forward, made the play of the game early in the second quarter for the Miami Heat.The Miami Heat cruised past the Atlanta Hawks.
Miami had a multitude of “highlight-reel” plays, including two three-pointers that came from Dru Smith’s steals. However, their play of the night occurred at the beginning of the second quarter.
Rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. penetrated at the top of the arc before pulling back with a crossover. The move sent Hawks sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic to the floor before Jaquez drained a three-pointer. This play expanded the Heat’s lead to 17 points.
Jaquez had the best game of his young career, recording 20 points, four assists, and one steal on 8 of 17 shooting. The absence of star forward Jimmy Butler made way for him to make his second career start. He took full advantage of the opportunity, proving why he is an essential piece of their future.
Atlanta’s backcourt combined for 50 points and 16 assists, but the efforts of Jaquez and Bam Adebayo overpowered. The Heat’s lead shrank in moments, but they were able to hold out for the eight-point victory.
With Butler and Tyler Herro out, Adebayo functioned as the No. 1 option. He recorded 26 points and 17 rebounds on 75 percent shooting.
Miami is taking on Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
