Jaime Jaquez Jr. Made Miami Heat History In The Win Against The Philadelphia 76ers
Miami Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. is one of the most polarizing rookies in the NBA.
And Monday's victory over the shorthanded Philadelphia 76ers proved it.
He became the second rookie in Heat franchise history to record a 30-point, 10-rebound, double double. He did so on 73.3 percent shooting with zero turnovers. The first was forward Grant Long in the 1989 season.
This is arguably not the most impressive feat Jaquez has accomplished in December. He leads all rookies in scoring this month with 16.6 points per game. Generational big men Victor Wembanyama (16.4 points) and Chet Holmgren (15.8 points) come in right behind.
With veteran forward Jimmy Butler sidelined for the past three contests, Jaquez has been given a platform to thrive. The 22-year-old has scored in double digits in each outing. He fits the timeline of stars Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, making for an exciting Big Three in the future. For now, Jaquez is aiming to contribute in any way he can.
Coach Erik Spoelstra has expressed full confidence in the No. 18 pick, playing him the entire fourth quarter on a consistent basis. Jaquez's biggest assets entering the draft were his NBA readiness and veteran-like presence. Both of those tools are at the forefront of his displays, as he takes care of the ball when it matters most.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci
You can also check out his personal blog HERE
Follow all of our Miami Heat coverage on Facebook HERE
Subscribe to our YouTube channel HERE
