Herro eyes return as Heat send Jakucionis to G League and address rebounding issues
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MIAMI — Guard Tyler Herro rejoined practice on Sunday but expects to sit out at least one more week while completing his recovery from September ankle surgery, the Miami Heat said.
The 25-year-old missed an opportunity to become eligible for a Designated Veteran, or “super-max,” extension next offseason. Because of the league’s new 65-game minimum for postseason awards, he can no longer qualify for All-NBA consideration in 2025/26. Herro, who called the rule “fair,” is owed a combined $64 million over the next two seasons.
“I try to play as many games as possible,” Herro said. “That’s what they pay me to do.”
Seamless fit expected in faster offense
Head coach Erik Spoelstra predicted Herro would slide easily into Miami’s new uptempo attack. “His skill level—he’s one of the most skilled guys in the league,” Spoelstra said. “We miss him dearly.”
Jakucionis sent to Sioux Falls
Rookie first-round pick Kasparas Jakucionis missed the season’s first eight games with a right groin strain and has yet to make his NBA debut. The 19-year-old guard was assigned to the Sioux Falls Skyforce on Saturday for additional minutes. In his first G League appearance, he posted 12 points on 4-of-15 shooting, seven rebounds, two assists and six turnovers in 22 minutes.
Rebounding remains a concern
With center Bam Adebayo sidelined by a toe injury, defensive rebounding has plagued Miami. “It’s costing us games now,” Spoelstra said after Friday’s loss in New York. The Heat were again outrebounded by the Knicks on Monday but limited second-chance points and escaped with a two-point victory.
Butler trade revisited
In a separate report, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reviewed the February deal that brought Jimmy Butler to Miami, assessing its long-term impact on the franchise.
Herro’s anticipated return, Jakucionis’ development in Sioux Falls and improved work on the glass will shape the Heat’s immediate outlook as the club navigates Adebayo’s absence.
Source: Hoops Rumors
