Miami Heat Already Trusting Rookie Jaime Jaquez In The Clutch

Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez is already playing in situations usually reserved for veteran. He played solid down the stretch in Wednesday's win against Memphis Grizzlies

The Miami Heat knew exactly what they were getting when they drafted Jaime Jaquez last June. 

He is an experienced player who could contribute immediately after playing four years at UCLA. And that's exactly what the Heat are receiving so far this season. 

Jaquez had 11 points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals in Wednesday's victory against the Memphis Grizzlies. Most importantly, he was on the court in the clutch. 

It resulted in a key 3-pointer late that helped the Heat get their first road victory. 

"He made some plays down the stretch on both ends of the court," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "Defensively, he was very good. He has just great instincts for the ball. He's physical. He has some poise and savviness to him defensively so he can play with the vets."

After Memphis' Santi Aldama hit a 3-pointer to make it a three-point game with 35.5 seconds left, the Heat turned to Jaquez. He hit a three from the corner to clinch it. 

 Jaquez said he wants continue making the Heat trust him in these situations. 

"It's all part of the process being where I am, being a rookie," Jaquez said. "You've got to take these steps. I try to keep moving forward, take steps in the right direction, not take any steps back." 

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Shandel Richardson writes about the Miami Heat for Inside The Heat, a Fan Nation channel for Sports Illustrated. He has covered the NBA since 2010.

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