Shooting guard Dru Smith has received full medical clearance less than a year after tearing his Achilles and will open the 2025/26 campaign without a formal minutes limit, head coach Erik Spoelstra said. Although Spoelstra called the recovery “well ahead of schedule,” he indicated the staff will watch the 26-year-old’s workload after two significant injuries in consecutive seasons.
Because Tyler Herro (ankle surgery), Davion Mitchell and Kasparas Jakucionis all dealt with preseason health issues, Smith could start Wednesday’s season opener in Orlando, according to Ira Winderman of the Sun-Sentinel.
Smith insisted the mental hurdle is behind him. “Once I’m on the floor, I’m just playing basketball,” he said, adding that an expanded pre-game routine helps keep him prepared.
Herro unlikely to sign before deadline
League sources told The Miami Herald that Miami is expected to pass on a rookie-scale extension for Herro ahead of Monday’s cutoff. Team executives reportedly want to evaluate the 25-year-old after his career-best season before committing long-term and never made a formal proposal during recent talks. If no agreement is reached, Herro can pursue a four-year deal worth up to $206.9 million next summer, or a five-year super-max projected at $380 million should he earn All-NBA honors.
Rozier makes preseason debut
Terry Rozier returned Friday from a strained hamstring, logging his first preseason minutes. The 31-year-old is entering the final season of his contract and acknowledged an uncertain future in South Florida. “Last season was rough,” Rozier said. “I just want an equal opportunity like everybody else, and if I don’t get it, I’ll still be that veteran voice.”
Jaquez targets downhill attack
After leaning on perimeter shooting a year ago, Jaime Jaquez Jr. plans to focus on driving to the rim. “Make or miss, I’m done letting threes affect me,” the second-year forward said. “My strength is getting downhill, creating for the team and sometimes for myself.”
The Heat face the Magic on Wednesday to begin the regular season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
